UC-NRLF 


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THE 


Vermont  Asylu 


M 


FOR  THE 


Insane 


ITS    ANNALS 


FOR 


F^IKTY     YEARS 


.j_-  ^  •.___<»%♦, 


BRATTLEBORO : 

PRINTED  BY  HILDRETH  &  PALES. 

1887. 


I         •  •     »  «  •• 

>.••  •    •  •  •  ' 


'^ 


CONTENTS. 


1834. 

Monumental  stone.— Will  of  Mrs.  Marsh. — Inventory  of  property. — Act 
of  Incorporation. — Circumstances  attending  the  making  of  the  will  by  Mr. 
Keyes. — Home,  and  personal  reminiscences  of  Mrs.  Marsh.— Case  of  Rich-  < 
ard  Whitney.^ — Eulogistic  comments  upon  Mrs.  Marsh.  Page  i. 

1835- 

Letter  of  E.  C.  Tracy. — The  smallness  of  the  bequest,  and  credit  due  to 
John  C.  Holbrook. — The  organization  of  the  Board. — The  receipt  of  the 
money  from  Mr.  Keyes. — The  question  uppermost. — Number  of  asylums  in  ^ 
the  United  States  prior  to  the  Vermont  Asylum. — First  report  of  the  Trus- 
tees in  full. — Mr.  Keyes  deputized  to  go  to  Montpelier  and  solicit  aid  from 
the  State. — His  letter  announcing  his  success. — Legislative  Act  appropriating 
$10,000. — Mr.  Keyes'  testimony  in  1878  reviewed. — Vote  of  Trustees  to  pur- 
chase site.  Page  10. 

1836. 

Consideration  of  Sites. — Determination  of  site. — Cost  of  original  pur- 
chases.— Letter  of  Rev.  Louis  Dwight  relative  to  site. — Election  of  Dr. 
Rockwell  as  superintendent. — Second  report  of  the  Trustees  in  full. — Leg- 
islative Act  appropriating  $2000. — Opening  circular,  and  terms  of  admission. 
— Reception  of  first  patients. — Cost  of  reconstructing  and  enlarging  the 
original  buildings.  Page  19. 

1837. 

The  opening,  upon  the  family  plan. — Reports  of  the  Trustees  and  Super- 
intendent in  full. — Legislative  act  appropriating  $4000. — Steps  toward 
erection  of  new  buildings. — Correspondence  upon  the  subject  with  Dr. 
Woodward. — Employment  of  Capt.  Merchant  Toby  to  prepare  plans  and 
estmiates.  -Case  of  Rev.  E.  H. in  detail.  Page.  30. 

1838. 

Commencement  of  permanent  buildings. — Election  of  Asa  Keyes  to 
succeed  Trustee  John  Holbrook,  deceased. — Financial  negotiations  in 
respect  to  the  State  appropriations.  -  Purchase  of  spring  of  water  of  Hough- 
ton Pike. — Review  of  reports  of  Trustees  and  Superintendent. — Financial 
exhibit,  and  increase  of  staff  officers. — Cost  of  buildings  erected  this  year. 

Page  45. 


ivil88089 


iv  CONTENTS. 

1839. 

Opening  of  the  newly  erected  permanent  buildings. — Resignation  of 
Trustee  John  C.  Holbrook,  and  election  of  Nathan  B.  Williston  to  succeed 
l^ii^^ — Review  of  reports  of  Trustees  and  Superintendent. — Financial  state- 
ment for  the  fiscal  year.  Page  50. 

1840. 

Review  of  reports  of  Trustees  and  Superintendent. — Financial  exhibit 
for  the  year. — Action  of  the  Trustees  in  memorializing  the  Legislature  for 
means  toward  the  erection  of  the  first  wing  east. — Act  appropriating  $4000. 
— Action  of  Trustees  after  passage  of  this  Act.  Page  55. 

1841. 

Resignation  of  Epaphro'  Seymour,  as  treasurer,  and  appointment  of  N. 
B.  Williston  in  his  place. — Further  action  of  the  Trustees  relative  to  the 
length  of  the  new  wing. — Review  of  reports  of  Trustees  and  Superin- 
tendent.—Change  of  assistant .  physician  on  Asylum  staff. — Purchase  of 
additional  water  supply  of  James  Minott. — Statement  of  the  finances. — Cost 
of  the  first  wing  east,  erected  this  year.  Page  59. 

1842. 

Annual  meeting  of  Trustees,  and  vote  to  increase  the  salary  of  the 
superintendent. — Review  of  reports  of  Trustees  and  Superintendent. — 
Change  of  Matron. — Current  financial  exhibit. — Purchase  of  additional 
water  supply  of  Asa  Greene. — Comments  on  the  reports  of  this  year  by  Rev. 
Louis  Dwight.  Page  61. 

1843- 

Review  of  annual  reports  of  this  year  ;  final  appeal  of  the  Trustees  for 
aid  in  extending  accommodations. — Inauguration  of  a  newspaper  enterprise. 
— Act  appropriating  $3000. -Action  of  Trustees  following  this  Act. — Finan- 
cial statement.  Page  63. 

1844. 

Extension  of  the  west  wing, — Review  of  reports  of  Trustees  and 
Superintendent.  -Highest  curative  results  reached.— Financial  statement 
of  the  fiscal  year.— Change  of  assistant  physician.— Act  for  Relief  of  Insane 
"Poor.— Action  of  Trustees  relative  to  the  foregoing  Act.— Appointment  of 
Asa  Keyes  as  auditor.  -Report  of  auditor,  and  summary  of  the  status  of  the 
Asylum  at  close  of  this  year.— Queries  yet  unanswered.— Comments  of 
American  Journal  of  Insanity  on  the  terms  upon  which  patients  are  received. 
— Cost  of  extension  to  west  wing.  Page  66. 


CONTENTS.  V 

1845- 

Relation  of  Asylum  to  the  State.—Further  enlargement  determined 
upon. — Review  of  annual  reports.-  Financial  exhibit,  and  policy.  Purchase 
of  water  supply  of  Eben  Wells.—  By-laws.— Election  of  officers  for  the  cur- 
rent year.— Act  increasing  the  standing  appropriation  of  the  State  for  the 
relief  of  the  insane  poor,  also  providing  for  the  appointment  of  a  Commis- 
sioner of  the  Insane. — Cost  of  east  wing  extension.  Page  74. 

1846. 

Review  of  annual  reports. — Financial  statement. — Purchase  of  Ceme- 
tery plat.     Annual  election  of  officers.  Page  82. 

1847. 

Purchase  of  land  of  John  L.  Dickerman. — Purchase  of  right  to  lay 
aqueduct  through  land  of  Newman  Allen  from  the  Wells  spring,  and  cost 
of  same. — Review  of  annual  reports. — Sketch  of  Wm.  S.  George,  printer  of 
the  Asylum  Journal. — Annual  election  of  officers. — Election  of  J.  Dorr  Brad- 
ley to  succeed  Mr.  Seymour,  as  Trustee. — Vote  to  extend  the  center  building, 
and  the  east  wing  (north). — Financial  exhibit.  Page  84. 


Purchase  of  land  of  A.  and  A.  Bennett. — Enlargement  of  center  building, 
and  east  wing  (north). — Review  of  annual  reports. — ^Annual  election  of 
officers. — Purchase  of  land  and  water  right  of  Charles  Chapin. — Financial 
statement. — Cost  of  the  enlargements  and  extensions  made  this  year. 

Page  87. 
1849. 

Review  of  annual  reports.— Financial  statement. — Annual  election  of 
officers — Change  of  matron, — Purchase  of  grounds  of  John  R.  Blake. — Pur- 
chase of  land  of  Newman  Allen. — Purchase  of  land  of  Samuel  Thomas. 

Page  89. 

1850. 

Purchase  of  land  of  Nelson  Crosby.— Front  walk  laid  out  and  hemlock 
hedge  planted. — General  course  of  treatment  pursued,  remarked  upon  by 
the  Superintendent. — Annual  election  of  officers. — Financial  statement  for 
the  year.— Purchase  of  land  of  Newman  Allen.— Precautions  against  fire. — 
Erection  of  farm-barn  upon  the  meadow,  and  cost  of  same.  Page  91, 

1851. 

Vote  to  lay  iron  pipe  from  the  Wells  spring.— Review  of  annual  reports. 
— Epidemic  of  dysentery.  Puerperal  cases  remarked  upon. — Annual  election 
of  officers.— Financial  statement  for  the  year.— Cost  of  iron  aqueduct  pipe. 
— Cost  of  addition  to  east  wing.— Gift  of  iron  castings  for  a  fountain. 

Page  93. 


Vi  CONTENTS. 

1852. 
Resignation  of  Samuel  Clark,  as  Trustee,  and  election  of  Frederick  Hol- 
brook  to  succeed  him. — Vote  to  build  a  laundry,  and  cost  of  same  with 
machinery  and  fixtures. — Review  of  annual  reports. — Annual  election  of 
officers. — Financial  statement  for  the  year. — Purchase  of  land  of  Houghton 
Pike,  David  W.  Miller,  Addison  Brown,  and  Charles  Chapin,  also  of  mountain 
land  secured  to  the  Asylum  by  Dr.  Rockwell. — Report  of  the  Legislative 
Committee  relative  to  the  management  of  the  Asylum,  in  full.        Page  96. 

1853. 

Vote  to  build  extensions  to  the  west  wing" — Review  of  annual  reports 
— Epidemic  of  small-pox. — Annual  election  of  officers. — Financial  statement 
for  the  year. — Piggery  built. — Cost  of  same,  also  of  extensions  to  west  wing. 
— Purchase  of  land  of  W.  E.  Eason  and  heirs  of  Eben  Wells.      Page  100. 

1854. 

Erection  of  brick  storehouse  and  cost  of  same. — Review^  of  reports  for 
the  year. — Acknowledgements  to  Trustee  Fred'k  Holbrook. — Financial 
statement  for  the  year. — Annual  election  of  officers. — Purchase  of  land  of 
Eben  Wells,  also  of  Nelson  Crosby  including  slate  quarry. — Requirements 
of  Trustees,  of  attendants.  Page  103. 

1855- 

Election  of  Jacob  Catlin  as  apothecary. — Vote  to  build  two  infirmaries. — 
Review  of  annual  reports.— Measures  for  the  protection  of  the  bank  in  the 
rear. — Epidemic  of  dysentery  and  its  probable  cause. — Financial  exhibit. — 
Annual  election  of  officers. — Purchase  of  additional  mountain  land  of  John 
L.  Sargent  and  Dr.  Rockwell.— Erection  of  a  wood-house  at  male  infirmary 
building  and  cost  of  same.— Cost  of  the  two  infirmaries.— Procurement  of  a 
Legislative  Act  for  the  appointment  of  a  Medical  Examiner.        Page  106. 

1856. 

Further  provision  against  fire. — Review  of  annual  reports, — Annual 
•election  of  officers. — Election  of  clerk  to  superintendent,  and  suspension  of 
the  office  of  apothecary. — Annual  financial  statement. — Vote  to  remove  the 
"  White  House,"  or  original  building,  and  erect  a  brick  building  in  its  place; 
also  to  remove  the  school-house  from  the  common  in  front  of  the  grounds^ 
an  d  give  a  site  for  the  same  upon  the  corner  of  Chase  and  Asylum  streets. — 
Vote  of  school-district  upon  the  subject.  Page  no. 

1857. 
Purchase  of  land  of  P.  B.  Francis. — Formal  transfer  and  acceptance  of 
the  new  school-house  by  the  district.— Purchase  of  land  of  the  Misses 
Crosby. — Vote  to  secure  fire-proof  vaults  for  the  records  of  the  Asylum. — 
Review  of  annual  refborts.— Financial  statement  for  the  year. — Annual  elec- 
tion of  officers.— Purchase  of  land  of  Nathaniel  Samson  and  Charles  S. 
Prouty.— Cost  of  Marsh  Building.— Loss  of  farm-barn  and  stock  by  fire.— 
Comments  of  American  Journal  of  Insanity  upon  Dr.  Rockwell,  and  detail 
of  his  literary  work.  Page  113. 


CONTENTS.  vii 


1858. 

Small  purchase  of  land  of  Shepard  Rice. — Purchase  of  farm  of  Newman 
Allen,  also  of  mountain  land  of  John  Heywood  and  others. — Improvements 
in  ventilation. — Review  of  annual  reports. — Cost  of  rebuilding  farm-barn. — 
Annual  financial  statement. — Annual  election  of  officers.  Page  119. 

1859. 

Vote  to  erect  a  brick  stable.— Cost  of  same.— Purchase  of  land  of  Mary 
A.  Knowlton. — Review  of  annual  reports. — Annual  financial  statement. — 
Annual  election  of  officers. — Purchase  of  additional  mountain  land  secured 
by  Dr.  Rockwell.  Page  122. 

i860. 

Purchase  of  land  of  Keith  White. — Vote  to  raise  the  roofs  of  the  wings 
an  additional  story, — Review  of  annual  reports.— Financial  statement  for 
the  year. — Annual  election  of  officers.  Page  124. 

1861. 

Review  of  annual  reports. — Annual  financial  statement. — Annual  election 
of  officers. — Cost  of  third  story  enlargement.  Page  127. 

1862. 

Action  of  Trustees  toward  the  introduction  of  steam-heating. — Review 
of  annual  reports. — Election  of  officers.— Financial  statement  for  the  year. 
— Purchase  of  mountain  land  of  Farnsworth  &  Colburn  and  Colburn  & 
Cobleigh. — Death  of  Trustee  J.  Dorr  Bradley,  and  election  of  Daniel 
Kellogg  as  his  successor. — The  great  fire.  Page  129. 

1863. 

Action  of  Trustees  toward  rebuilding. — Review  of  annual  reports. — 
Obituary  notices  of  Mr.  Bradley. — Annual  financial  statement. — Cost  of 
rebuilding  after  the  great  fire. — Purchase  of  meadow  land  of  Gov.  Fred'k 
Holbrook,  also  land  of  John  F.  Stearns,  Sally  Nurse  and  others,  in  Dum- 
merston. — Annual  election  of  officers.  Page  134. 

1864. 

Bequest  of  Amherst  Willoughby,  of  Berkshire,  Vt. — Annual  election  of 
officers. — Review  of  annual  reports. — Annual  financial  statement.— Purchase 
of  wood  land  of  Wells  Goodhue,  in  Vernon. — Biographical  sketch  of  Dr. 
Amherst  Willoughby,  also  of  Moses  Wakefield.  Page  137. 

1865. 

Vote  to  build  a  farm-barn.— Vote  to  raise  salary  of  superintendent.— 
Review  of  annual  reports. — Cost  of  farm-barn. — Annual  financial  statement. 
— ^Annual  election  of  officers.  Page  141. 


viii  CONTENTS. 


866. 


Vote  to  erect  a  wood-house. — Cost  of  same. — Water  supply  increased. — 
Review  of  annual  reports — Annual  financial  statement.— Annual  election, 
of  officers.— Purchase  of  additional  land  for  enlargement  of  cemetery  plat. 

Page  145- 
1867. 

Purchase  of  the  Capen  spring.— Review  of  annual  reports.— Annual 
financial  statement. — Annual  election  of  officers.— Obituary  notice  of  Miss 
Abigail  Rockwell,  late  matron.  Page  147. 

1868. 

Purchase  of  "  Pikeville." — Review  of  annual  reports. — Annual  financial 
statement.— Annual  election  of  officers.  Page  149. 

1869. 

Erection  of  new  laundry  building,  and  conversion  of  the  old  into  exten- 
sion of  ward  accommodation. — Cost  of  same.— Annual  election  of  officers. 
— Annual  financial  statement. — Extract  from  report  of  the  State  commis- 
sioner.— Legal  question  relative  to  the  use  of  the  Capen  spring. 

Page  151. 

1870. 
« 

Vote  to  remove  the  wood-house  erected  in  1866. — Vote  to  build  a  new 
farm-house. — Albert  H.  Bull's  will. — Resolutions  thereupon. — Review  of 
annual  reports. — Annual  financial  statement. — Annual  election  of  officers. — 
Vote  to  purchase  the  farm  of  Henry  H.  Rice. — Cost  of  farm-house. 

Page  153. 
187T-2. 

Act  of  Legislature  making  reports  biennial.— Purchase  of  the  Pike 
homestead. — Annual  election  of  officers,  1871. — Negotiations  relative  to  the 
Capen  spring,  and  cost  of  securing  water  rights. — Cost  of  iron  aqueduct 
pipe  to  the  Asylum. — Purchase  of  estate  of  James  A.  Chase. — Accident  to 
Dr.  Rockwell. — His  resignation,  and  resolutions  of  the  Board  of  Trustees 
on  the  occasion. — Annual  election  of  officers,  1872,  and  readjustment  of 
salaries. — Financial  exhibit  for  the  biennial  period.— Portents  of  a  gather- 
ing storm. — Cases  of  Joseph  A.  Stockton  and  Peter  H.  Shaw  reviewed. — 
Resignation  of  Dr.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  and  election  of  Dr.  Joseph  Draper  to  the 
superintendency. — Vote  of  the  Trustees  to  build  an  additional  wing  at  each 
extremity  of  the  main  line  of  buildings,  preparatory  to  the  introduction  of 
steam-heating  apparatus.  Page  156. 

1873-4. 

Beginning  of  Dr.  Draper's  superintendency. — Vote  of  Trustees  author- 
izing the  procurement  of  a  portrait  of  Dr.  Rockwell  for  the  Asylum. — 
Report  of  the  Legislative  investigating  committee,  and  review  of  the  same.. 


CONTENTS.  ix 

Annual  election  of  officers,  1873. — Adoption  of  a  code  of  rules  for  the  gov- 
ernment of  attendants  and  employes.— Death  of  Dr.  Rockwell. — Resigna- 
tion of  Trustees  Daniel  Kellogg  and  Asa  Keyes,  and  election  of  Dr. 
Rockwell,  Jr.,  and  James  M.  Tyler  as  their  successors. — Annual  election  of 
officers,  1874. — Review  of  biennial  reports. — Financial  exhibit  for  the  period. 
— Cost  of  the  permanent  improvements  in  the  two  years. — Sketch  of  Wil- 
liam Moss.  Page  168. 

1875-6. 

Vote  to  complete  the  introduction  of  steam-heating  apparatus. — Resig- 
nation of  Trustee  N.  B.  Williston,  and  election  of  Richards  Bradley  as  his 
successor. — Annual  election  of  officers,  1875-6. — Review  of  biennial  reports. 
— Biennial  financial  exhibit. — Cost  of  permanent  improvements  of  this 
period. — Report  of  State  Commissioner  and  review  of  same. — Report  of 
Joint  Legislative  committee  in  full, —  Resolution  authorizing  a  commission 
to  further  investigate  and  report  to  the  next  Legislature.  Page  183. 

1877-8 

Fire  at  Asylum.  -  Vote  to  re-locate  stable,  and  proposal  of  Mr.  Bradley 
that  the  new  line  of  buildings  include  a  gymnasium. — Annual  election  of 
officers,  1877. —  Introduction  of  steam-cooking  apparatus,— Purchase  of  cot- 
tage near  cold  spring,  of  R.  N.  Hescock, — Cost  of  reconstructing  burned  line 
of  buildings. — Revision  of  By-laws. — Action  relative  to  disposal  of  sewage, 
and  conclusion  to  erect  a  work-shop  and  ice-house. — Election  of  officers, 
1878. — Financial  exhibit  for  the  biennial  period, — Review  of  biennial 
reports. — Response  of  the  Legislature,  raising  rate  of  support. — Action  of 
Trustees  relative  to  radical  alterations  of  the  wards. — Cost  of  completing 
the  system  of  steam-heating,  and  of  building  work-shop  and  ice-house. — 
Report  of  Special  Investigating  Commission. — Comments  of  the  officers  of 
the  Asylum  thereon,  in  full. — Report  of  Joint  Standing  Legislative  Commit- 
tee in  full. — Revision  of  the  Lunacy  laws;  abolishment  of  the  office  of 
Commissioner,  and  creation  of  a  Board  of  Supervisors  of  the  insane. 

Page  203. 

T879-80. 

Annual  election  of  officers,  1879. — Amendment  of  Article  III  of  By-laws, 
creating  the  office  of  steward  and  defining  his  duties. — Further  improve- 
ments in  the  wards  ordered. — Purchase  of  the  Person  place. — Petition  of 
the  Trustees  for  the  laying  out  of  a  road  from  Mechanics'  Square  to  the 
Newfane  road,  and  proposal  of  Mr.  Tyler  that  the  portion  cut  off  thereby 
from  the  farm  be  devoted  to  a  pleasure  park. — Election  of  officers  for  1880. 
— Review  of  biennial  reports.— Financial  exhibit  for  the  biennial  period. — 
Cost  of  radical  changes  in  the  interior  plan  of  the  buildings, — Establish- 
ment of  boundary  line  between  lands  of  Dorman  B,  Eaton  and  the  Asylum. 
— Employment  of  E.  W.  Bowditch,  landscape  gardener,  Boston,  to  lay  out 
park  and  make  plan  of  the  same.— General  tenor  of  report  of  the  State 
Board  of  Supervisors  of  the  Insane.  Page  238. 


X  CONTENTS. 

1881-2. 

Leave  of  absence  for  three  months  granted  to  superintendent  to  enable 
him  to  visit  Europe. — Temporary  appointment  of  an  additional  assistant. — 
Annual  election  of  officers,  1881. — Proposal  of  superintendent  for  the  estab- 
lishment of  a  summer  retreat,  and  action  of  Trustees  thereon. — Cost  of 
property  secured  for  that  purpose. — Purchase  of  land  on  Putney  road 
secured  for  the  Asylum  by  Dr.  Draper.  Plans  determined  upon  for  remod- 
eling the  buildings  for  the  Summer  Retreat. — Annual  election  of  officers 
1882. — Biennial  financial  exhibit. — Review  of  biennial  reports,  and  work  of 
the  period.  Page  247. 

1883-4. 

Completion  and  cost  of  preceding  year's  improvements. — Action  relative 
to  a  reconstruction  of  the  chapel. — Annual  election  of  officers,  1883. — Cost 
of  new  chapel  and  incidental  work. — Purchase  of  an  extension  to  the  park, 
of  Joseph  Prescott. — Review  of  biennial  reports. — Biennial  financial  exhibit. 
— Election  of  officers,  1884.— Proposal  to  protect  the  grave  of  Mrs.  Marsh. 
— Plans  for  rearrangement  of  farm-buildings.  Page  252. 

1885-6. 

Vote  to  construct  a  new  system  of  sewerage,  reconstruct  the  engine- 
house,  and  rearrange  and  re-set  the  boilers.— Cost  of  same.— Annual  elec- 
tion of  officers,  1885.— Construction  and  cost  of  cupolas  on  wings.— Action 
of  Trustees  in  reference  to  the  Willoughby  legacy. — Action  of  Trustees  in 
reference  to  enlargement  of  the  reservoir  on  park,  and  the  building  of  a 
new  piggery.— Construction  of  an  additional  fire  hydrant  in  connection  with 
Mr.  Crowell's  reservoir  on  Highland  park.— Erection  of  carriage  porch  at 
rear  entrance,  and  of  new  kitchen  entrance. — Proposition  of  Mr.  Tyler 
looking  to  the  reconstruction  of  the  Asylum  on  a  modern  plan. — Election  of 
officers,  i886.--Review  of  the  biennial  reports.— Inauguration  of  camping 
excursions,— Biennial  financial  exhibit.— Extract  from  report  of  State  Board 
of  Supervisors.- The  fiftieth  anniversary  day.  Page  256. 

Conclusion,  -  -        ^       -  -  -  268. 

The  Medical  Record,  -  -  -  -       '       269. 

The  Financial  Record,  -  -  -  271. 

The  Construction  Record,  -  -  -  275. 

Memorial  Chapter,         .  -  -  -  278. 


ILLUSTRATIONS. 


The  Home  of  Mrs.  Marsh,         -  -              Frontispiece 

The  Original  Building,     -  -                 -                 -    1836 

The  Vermont  Asylum,                -  -                 -             1844 

The  Vermont  Asylum,        -  -                 -                 -     1854 

The  Marsh  Building,                  -  -                 -             1857 

The  Vermont  Asylum,        -  -                 -                 -    1874 

Interior  plan  of  first  story,  -                 -             1878 

The  Summer  Retreat,        -  -                 -                 -     1881 

The  Vermont  Asylum,                -  -                 -             1884 

Block-plan,  chronologically  constructed,  -     1886 


INTRODUCTION 


WHY  this  book  ?     Firsts  because  the  Vermont  Asylum  is  one 
of  the  oldest  institutions  for  the  care  of  the  insane  in  the 
United  States,  and   has  in  some  respects  a  unique  history 
that  has  not  been  fully  told  in  its  published   reports  ;    which  latter, 
moreover,  are  now  so  scarce  that  for  many  years  it  has  been  impos- 
sible to  obtain  a  complete  set. 

Second^  the  completion  of  a  half-century  of  its  chartered  work 
warrants  the  compilation  of  its  results,  for  the  benefit  of  the 
specialty  in  its  statistical  elaborations  and  generalizations. 

Thirds  as  here  presented  it  affords  in  a  single  volume  a  complete 
resume  of  the  fifty  years'  work,  in  such  form  that  it  may  take  a  place 
in  libraries  along  with  kindred  literature,  and  be  conveniently 
referred  to. 

Fou7-th^  it  .has  seemed  to  the  compiler  a  work  that  could  not  be 
longer  delayed  without  loss  of  much  of  the  material  which  now  goes 
to  make  up  its  annals,  and  which  has  been  gathered  to  a  consider- 
able extent  from  those  already  deceased. 

Besides  the  records  of  the  Trustees  from  the  beginning,  and  the 
published  reports,  the  early  correspondence  of  the  Trustees  with 
men  prominent  in  philanthropic  work  a  half  century  ago  has  been 
drawn  upon  to  some  extent,  as  also  the  verbal  history  derived  from 
those  early  engaged  in  the  work,  who,  within  the  time  of  the  writer, 
have  borne  testimony  to  many  unrecorded  facts.  It  has  been  our 
endeavor  to  show,  as  far  as  possible,  the  yearly  life,  with  the  accom- 
plishments of  each  annual  period  ;  also,  the  ideas  underlying  the 
general  policy  of  management  and  the  professional  conduct  of  the 
establishment,  as  evidenced  by  numerous  and  extended  quotations 
from  the  Trustees  and  Superintendents,  and  in  some  instances  from 
published  reviews  in  contemporary  Journals. 

The  writer  is  aware  that  some  typographical  errors  exist  that 
might  have  been  avoided  had  a  professional  proof-reader  been  avail- 
able ;  but  which  he  trusts  will  be  overlooked  by  the  general  reader. 
Absolute  exactness  has  been  aimed  at  in  respect  to  the  facts.  All 
statements  made  may  be  relied  upon,  and  all  comments  have  been 
made  in  the  spirit  of  fairness,  with  strict  regard  to  truth.         J.  D. 


THE 


Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane. 


ITS    ANNALS. 


RECORD  OF  1834. 


Mrs,. 

ANNA  MARSH, 

(llJ§<3i 

Oct. 

14,  1834,  Aged  65. 

Consort  of 

Dr 

.  Perley  Marsh. 

T 


HIS  monumental  stone,  in 
the  old  burial  ground   in 
Hinsdale,    N.    H.,    beside 
that  of  her  husband,  DoctJ  Per- 
ley Marsh,    who   died    Sept.  18, 
1807,  aged  41,  attests  the  resting- 
place    of    the    founder    of     the 
Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane. 
The  will  containing  the  bequest 
for  this  purpose  bears  date  June 
3rd,  1834,  and  reads  as  follows: 

"  I,  Anna  Marsh,  of  Hinsdale, 
in  the  County  of  Cheshire,  and 
State  of  New  Hampshire,  being 
weak  in  body,  but  in  my  own 
apprehension  of  sound  and  dis- 
posing mind  and  memory,  con- 
sidering the  uncertainty  of  this  mortal  life,  have  thought  it  best  to 
make,  and  accordingly  do  hereby  make,  this  my  last  will  and  testa- 
ment in  manner  following,  that  is  to  say,  as  to  all  my  worldly  estate, 
I  dispose  of  the  same  as  follows: 

"I  give  unto  the  town  of  Vernon,  in  the  County  of  Windham,  and 
State  of  Vermont,  two  thousand  dollars,  the  principal  to  be  kept  at? 


2  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

interest  as  a  permanent  fund  for  the  support  of  preaching  in  said 
town,  the  principal  to  be  kept  entire,  and  the  interest  only  to  be  used. 

"I  give  unto  Samuel  Clark,  John  Holbrook,  Epaphroditus  Sey- 
mour, and  John  C.  Holbrook,  all  of  Brattleboro,  in  the  County  of 
Windham  aforesaid,  and  their  successors,  ten  thousand  dollars  in 
trust,  for  the  purpose  of  erecting  and  supporting  in  the  County  of 
Windham,  near  Connecticut  River,  a  hospital  for  the  relief  of  insane 
persons,  and  in  case  of  the  decease  of  one  or  more  of  said  trustees, 
the  survivors  shall  from  time  to  time  fill  all  vacancies;  and  the  said 
trustees,  being  four  in  number,  shall  forever  hereafter  have  the  sole 
superintendence  and  direction  of  said  insane  hospital;  and  it  is  my 
will  that  the  said  trustees  procure  an  act  of  incorporation,  as  soon  as 
may  be  after  my  decease. 

"  I  give  unto  my  cousins,  Cynthia  G.  Arms,  Sarah  Tilden,  and 
Helen  Hunt,  all  residing  in  the  State  of  New  York,  five  hundred 
dollars  each. 

"  I  give  unto  Fanny  Blake,  wife  of  Dr.  Blake,  of  Northfield,  and 
Sally  Pomeroy,  wife  of  Medad  Pomeroy,  of  Warwick,  all  my  house- 
hold furniture  and  wearing  apparel,  to  be  equally  divided  between 
them.  And  as  to  all  the  rest  and  residue  of  my  estate,  whether  real 
or  personal  not  otherwise  herein  disposed  of,  I  give,  devise,  and 
bequeath  the  same  to  Hunt  Blake,  of  Vernon,  in  the  County  of  Wind- 
ham, and  State  of  Vermont,  to  hold  to  him,  his  heirs  and  assigns, 
forever. 

"  And  lastly,  I  do  hereby  constitute  and  appoint  John  Nevers,  of 
Northfield,  Mass.,  and  Asa  Keyes,  of  Brattleboro,  Vermont,  executors 
of  this  my  last  will  and  testament,  hereby  revoking  all  former  wills 
by  me  made. 

"  In  testimony  whereof,  I  the  said  Anna  Marsh,  have  hereunto 
set  my  hand  and  seal,  and  do  declare  the  above  to  be  my  last  will 
and  testament,  this  third  day  of  June,  in  the  year  of  our  Lord,  one 
thousand  eight  hundred  and  thirty-four. 

"Signed,  sealed,  and  declared  by  the 
said  Anna  Marsh  to  be  her  last  will  and 
testament  in  presence  of  us,  who  have 
witnessed  the  same  in  presence  of  the 
testatrix  and  in  the  presence   of  each   ^  ^^^^  ^^^^^    ^^  ^^ 

Adeline  Richardson, 
Orrin  Snow, 
Sally  Keyes, 
Asa  Kf.yes. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR   1834.  3 

"Proved  at  Keene,  first  Tuesday  of  January,  1835,  Sally  Keyes 
and  Orrin  Snow  witnesses.  Notice  previously  published.  Copy  filed 
in  Marlboro  Probate  District,  last  Wednesday  of  March,  1835.  Notice 
previously  published.  John  Nevers  and  Asa  Keyes,  executors, 
[appeared]  and  gave  bonds  in  $25,000.  Inventory  to  be  returned 
in  three  months.  Inventor}^  returned  first  Tuesday  of  April.  Prop- 
erty appraised  March  7,  1835,  by 

Jonathan  Brown,     \ 
Obed  Slate,  V  Appraisers." 

Timothy  A.  Bascom,  ) 
The  inventory  of  the  estate  exhibited  a  total  of  $21,720.49,  which 
was  largely  invested  in  notes  of  hand.  The  first  action  of  the  trustees 
was  to  apply  for  a  charter  from  the  Legislature,  in  accordance  with 
the  request  of  the  founder.  This  was  granted  by  the  General 
Assembly  of  the  State  of  Vermont  in  the  same  year  in  which  the  tes- 
tatrix died,  and  the  following  is  a  verbatim  et  literatim  copy: 

AN  ACT 

TO  INCORPORATE  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM  FOR  THE  INSANE. 

Sec.  I.  It  is  hereby  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the 
State  of  Vermont,  that  Samuel  Clark,  John  Holbrook,  Epaphro'  Sey- 
mour, and  John  C.  Holbrook,  and  their  successors,  appointed  as  here- 
inafter directed,  be,  and  they  hereby  are  incorporated,  and 
made  a  body  politic  and  corporate  by  the  name  of  "  The 
Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane,"  with  all  the  powers  and 
privileges  incident  to  such  corporations,  and  by  that  name  may  sue 
and  be  sued,  plead  and  be  impleaded,  appear,  prosecute  and  defend 
in  all  suits  and  actions,  and  shall  have  and  use  a  common  seal  to  be 
by  them  devised,  altered,  and  renewed,  at  their  pleasure. 

Sec.  2.  It  is  hereby  further  enacted,  that  the  said  corporation 
may  take  and  receive,  hold,  purchase  and  possess,  of  and  from  all 
persons  disposed  to  aid  the  benevolent  purposes  of  said  institution, 
any  grants  and  devises  of  lands  and  tenements,  in  fee  simple  or 
otherwise,  and  any  donations  and  bequests,  and  subscriptions  of 
money  or  other  property,  to  be  used  and  improved  for  the  erection, 
support,  and  maintenance  of  an  asylum  as  aforesaid,  provided  the 
income  of  said  corporation  from  its  real  and  personal  estate  does 
not  exceed  the  sum  of  ten  thousand  dollars  per  annum. 

Sec.  3.  It  is  hereby  further  enacted  that  said  corporation,  may 
from  time  to  time  make  and  establish  such  by-laws  [and]  regula- 
tions, for  the  internal  government  and  economy  of  said  asylum  as 


4  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

they  may  think  proper,  not  repugnant  to  the  constitution  and  laws 
of  this,  or  the  United  States;  and  may  at  any  meeting  thereof  duly 
warned,  choose  all  necessary  and  convenient  officers,  who  shall  have 
such  power  and  authority,  and  be  elected  in  such  manner  and  for 
such  period  of  time  as  the  said  corporation  by  their  by-laws  shall 
limit  and  direct. 

Sec.  4.  It  is  hereby  further  enacted  that  it  shall  be  lawful  for 
said  corporation  at  any  meeting  duly  warned  for  the  purpose,  to  alter 
or  change  the  name  of  said  corporation  by  substituting  or  adding 
the  name  of  any  distinguished  benefactor  who  may  make  liberal  con- 
tribution to  the  funds  thereof,  and  upon  such  change  or  alteration  as 
aforesaid,  the  said  corporation  shall  have  a  right  to  assume  and  take 
such  name,  and  shall  have,  hold,  and  enjoy  all  the  powers  and  priv- 
ileges given  by  this  act,  notwithstanding  such  alteration  and  change. 

Sec.  5.  It  is  hereby  further  enacted,  that  the  said  Samuel  Clark, 
John  Holbrook,  Epaphro'  Seymour,  and  John  C.  Holbrook,  and 
their  successors,  not  exceeding  at  any  time  four  in  number,  shall  be 
a  Board  of  Trustees,  and  shall  have  the  sole  superintendence  of  said 
Asylum,  and  in  case  of  the  decease,  resignation,  or  removal  of  one 
or  more  of  said  trustees,  the  survivors  shall  from  time  to  time,  fill 
all  such  vacancies. 

Sec.  6.  It  is  hereby  further  enacted  that  after  the  organization 
of  said  corporation,  the  said  trustees  shall  keep,  or  cause  to  be  kept, 
just  and  true  books  of  account  of  all  the  transactions  of  said  corpo- 
ration, and  shall  therein  enter  all  the  funds,  income,  donations, 
receipts  and  expenditures  thereof,  which  said  books  shall  at  all 
times  be  open  for  the  inspection  of  the  Board  of  Visitors,  nominated 
in  this  act,  and  the  said  trustees  shall  make  an  annual  report  to  the 
General  Assembly  of  the  amount  of  the  funds  of  said  Asylum,  the 
receipts  and  expenditures  thereof,  the  number  of  patients  admitted 
and  discharged,  the  number  cured,  the  state  of  others  discharged  or 
remaining,  and  such  other  information  as  may  be  necessary  to  show 
the  effects  and  operations  of  said  institution. 

Sec.  7.  It  is  hereby  further  enacted,  that  the  Judges  of  the 
Court  of  Chancery  for  the  time  being,  be,  and  hereby  are,  constituted 
a  Board  of  Visitors  of  the  said  Asylum,  with  authority  to  visit  the 
same  annually,  and  oftener  if  they  think  proper,  to  inspect  the  said 
establishment,  and  the  actual  condition  of  the  patients  thereof,  to 
examine  the  by-laws  and  regulations  enacted  by  said  corporation, 
and  generally  to  see  that  the  design  of  the  institution  be  carried  into 
effect,  in  a  careful,  tender,  and  effectual  manner;  and  the  said  Court 
of  Chancery  shall  have  full  power  to  correct  any  and  all  abuses  of 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1834.  5 

trust,  done,  suffered,  or  permitted  by  said  corporation,  or  the  officers 
thereof. 

Sec.  8.  It  is  hereby  further  enacted,  that  the  said  Samuel  Clark, 
and  upon  his  neglect,  any  other  membef  of  said  corporation,  may  call 
the  first  meeting  thereof,  by  giving  notice  of  the  time  and  place  of 
holding  the  same,  in  some  one  of  the  newspapers  printed  in  the 
County  of  Windham,  at  least  six  days  previous  to  said  meeting, — and 
all  other  meetings  of  said  corporation  shall  be  warned  and  holden  in 
the  manner  provided  by  the  by-laws  thereof. 

Sec.  9.  It  is  hereby  further  enacted  that  the  estate  both  real 
and  personal,  and  all  other,  the  funds  of  said  institution,  shall  at  all 
times  hereafter  be  exempt  from  all  taxes. 

Sec.  10.  It  is  hereby  further  enacted,  that  any  future  legis- 
lature shall  have  power  to  modify,  alter,  and  amend  this  act,  so  far 
as  to  provide  for  the  more  perfect  and  effectual  accomplishment  of 
the  objects  of  this  act.  [Approved  Nov.  3rd,   1834.] 

Thus  was  the  Institution  established,  upon  the  foundation  solely 
of  this  legacy.  The  circumstances  attending  the  bequest  we  have 
from  Asa  Keyes,  Esq.,  who  drew  up  the  will,  and  who  subsequently 
became  one  of  the  Trustees  of  the  Asylum.  In  testimony  given 
before  a  Legislative  Committee  in  1878,  he  thus  gives  an  account  of 
them:  "  Mrs.  Marsh  sent  for  me,  and  requested  me  to  come  to  her 
house;  the  messenger  told  me  she  wanted  to  make  a  will.  I  went 
over  there,  and  she  said  she  did.  I  called  for  paper,  and  asked  her 
to  whom  she  wanted  to  will  her  property,  and  she  said  she  would 
give  ten  thousand  dollars  for  an  Asylum  for  the  Insane.  It  was  new 
to  me  and  I  tried  to  divert  her  thoughts  to  other  things, — suggested 
the  Bible  Society,  and  other  things  of  that  nature, — but  she  refused 
every  one  of  them,  and  said  she  was  determined  to  have  an  Asylum 
for  the  Insane.  So  I  took  the  minutes  down,  and  told  her  I  would  go 
home  and  write  them  out,  and  come  over  in  the  course  of  a  week 
and  have  her  will  executed.  When  I  went  over  there,  I  found  that 
she  had  still  the  same  mind  about  building  an  Asylum.  Then  I 
asked  her  where  she  would  have  it  situated  ?  She  said  over  there  in 
Windham  County,  near  the  Connecticut  River,  you  can  find  a  good 
place.  Then  I  told  her  it  was  necessary  to  have  some  trustees;  and 
she  wished  me  to  name  some,  and  I  did  so,  and  she  chose  them.  The 
trustees  were  Dea.  J.  Holbrook,  Epaphro'  Seymour,  Samuel  Clark 
and  John  C.  Holbrook.  She  died  sometime  in  the  fall  after,  and  I 
was  named  as  executor,  proved  her  will,  and  went  on  and  adminis- 
tered her  estate,  together  with  John  Nevers,  of  Northfield,  Mass.  We 
settled  the  estate  and  paid  over  to  these  trustees  the  amount  of  ten 
thousand  dollars." 


6  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

The  home  of  Mrs.  Marsh  was  four  miles  below  Brattleboro,  on 
the  New  Hampshire  side  of  the  Connecticut  River.  There  yet  stands 
the  square  hip-roofed  two-story  mansion  (see  frontispiece),  now  122 
years  old,  typical  of  the  better  class  of  residences  in  the  early  part  of 
the  present  century,  from  which  during  the  twenty-seven  years  of  her 
widowhood  she  dispensed  a  liberal  hospitality,  and  connected  with 
which  was  an  estate  of  400  acres,  which  she  managed  with  signal 
ability.  The  place  itself  would  have  been  entirely  suited  to  the 
purposes  of  the  institution  which  she  endowed,  had  she  chosen  thus 
to  devote  it;  but  in  determining  the  location  of  the  Asylum  she  was 
decided  in  her  preference  for  the  Vermont  side,  declaring  "she  had 
already  done  enough  for  New  Hampshire,"*  where  she  resided.  It 
is  probable,  however,  that  her  preference  was  determined  by  the  fact 
that  Vermont  was  the  home  of  her  ancestry,  as  well  as  her  own 
birth-place. 

In  making  her  bequest  to  the  town  of  Vernon  (directly  opposite 
her  place  of  residence)  for  the  support  of  preaching,  she  remarked: 
"  They  are  a  very  godless  people  over  there,  and  never  go  to  meet- 
ing ;  I  want  to  do  something  to  get  them  together  on  the  Sabbath." 

When  other  objects  were  urged  upon  her  notice  as  worthy  of 
charitable  consideration,  as  stated  by  Mr.  Keyes,  she  remarked  that, 
"  Everybody  gave  to  missionary  objects,  and  educational  interests 
belonged  to  those  who  had  children  (she  had  none  living),  but 
nobody  cared  for  the  poor  insane  ;  they  were  neglected  and  shifted 
about,  and  she  wanted  to  provide  a  home  for  them." 

These  fragmentary  reminiscences  derived  from  Mr.  Keyes  in 
verbal  conversations,  go  to  show  that  her  last  will  was  the  result  of 
much  deliberation  upon  the  matter,  and — coupled  with  the  fact  that 
Mr.  Keyes  was  solicited  by  a  nephew  of  hers  to  whom  she  had  in  a 
previous  testament  bequeathed  the  bulk  of  her  property,  to  scruti- 

*Besides  many  contributions  to  worthy  objects  during  her  life-lime,  she 
gave  to  the  town  of  Hinsdale,  in  1828,  a  bell  weighing  910  pounds  and  c(isiin>^  sev- 
eral hundred  dollars,  which  was  placed  upon  the  first  church  in  that  village,  and 
remained  there  as  long  as  the  building  stood.  It  was  then  hired  by  the  Universalist 
society,  on  condition  that  it  be  rung  regularly  three  times  a  day,  at  9  A.  M.,  12  M. 
and  9  p.  M.,  for  the  benefit  of  the  town.  This  church  was  subsequently  leased  to 
the  Methodists,  and  while  in  their  charge  the  bell  became  cracked.  In  1873  '^ 
was  sold  by  the  town  for  old  mfetal  at  13  cents  per  pound,  and  the  avails,  $118.30, 
were  turned  into  the  town  treasury. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1834.  7 

nize  carefully  her  testamentary  capacity  when  making  the  alterations 
she  might  suggest — go  to  show  that  in  this  document  she  had  deter- 
mined to  set  aside  considerations  of  relationship,  and  carry  out, 
so  far  as  she  was  able,  her  philanthropic  views,  which  clearly  were 
not  the  result  of  any  sudden  or  unaccountable  freak  of  benevolence. 

The  author  of  the  History  of  Brattleboro,  published  in  1880, 
cites  the  case  of  Hon.  Richard  Whitney,  who  died  in  Hinsdale  in 
1806,  under  unfortunate  circumstances,  as  very  probably  having 
suggested  to  Mrs.  Marsh  the  need  of  a  hospital  for  the  insane.  Mr. 
Whitney,  who  had  been  a  man  prominent  in  political  life,  became 
mentally  deranged,  and  was  obliged  to  be  placed  under  restraint. 

At  that  time  little  if  anything  was  known  in  regard  to  the  proper 
treatment  of  insane  persons.  The  faculty  were  vainly  groping  in  the 
dark  for  a  potent  weapon  with  which  they  could  meet  this  myste- 
rious enemy  of  human  happiness,  called  insanity.  Many,  especially 
the  devoutly  religious  classes,  attributed  this  malady  to  supernatural 
causes.  Therefore  they  considered  all  remedial  efforts  vain,  and 
nothing  could  be  done  but  to  confine  the  unfortunate  victim,  and 
wait  for  death. 

A  council  of  physicians  [Dr.  Marsh  believed  to  have  been  one] 
decided  upon  trying  for  the  recovery  of  Mr.  Whitney  a  temporary- 
suspension  of  his  consciousness,  by  keeping  him  completely  immersed 
in  water  three  or  four  minutes,  or  until  he  became  insensible,  and 
then  resuscitate  or  awaken  him  to  a  new  life.  Passing  through  this 
desperate  ordeal,  it  was  hoped,  would  divert  his  mind,  break  the 
chain  of  unhappy  associations,  and  thus  remove  the  cause  of  his 
disease.  Upon  trial,  this  system  of  regeneration  proved  of  no  avail, 
for,  with  the  returning  consciousness  of  the  patient  came  the  knell 
of  departed  hopes,  as  he  exclaimed  *' You  can't  drown  love."  But 
the  failure  of  this  experiment  seems  not  to  have  convinced  the 
physicians  that  they  were  upon  the  wrong  track.  Some  accounts 
say  the  repetition  of  it  terminated  the  life  of  the  patient;  others,  and 
the  most  reliable,  state  that  in  the  subsequent  trial  opium  was  selected 
as  "  the  proper  agent  for  the  stupefaction  of  the  life  forces,"  which 
was  essayed  with  a  fatal  result. 

The  head-stone  over  the  grave  of  Mr.  Whitney,  in  the  same  burial 
ground  with  that  of  Dr.  Marsh,  bears  the  following  inscription: 


ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

"Here  rests 

the  mortal  part  of 

Richard  Whitney  Esq, 

Counsellor  at  law 

of  Brattleboro'  Vermont, 

Who  departed  this  life 

Sept.  9th  A.  D.  1806, 

Aged  39  years," 


"Those  who  knew  him  not  may 

Learn  from  this  Monument  stone 

that  his  virtues  have  rendered 

his  memory  precious  to  his 

bereaved  friends — the  sight  of  it 

will  exite  a  tender  recollection 

of  his  worth,  in  the  bosoms  of 

those  who  knew  him,  and  a  tear 

of  regret  at  his  early  and 

Untimely  departure. 

Let  us  humbly  hope  he  is  gone 

where  those  virtues  will  be 

fully  appreciated." 

No  likeness  of  Mrs.  Marsh  has  been  preserved,  but  she  is  repre- 
sented as  a  large,  rather  plain,  but  kindly  woman,  of  extremely 
hospitable  feelings.  She  added  a  wing  to  her  house,  which  she 
fitted  up  as  a  drawing-room,  with  arched  ceiling,  and  furnished  with 
costly  furniture,  where  she  was  accustomed  to  entertain  socially 
invited  parties  from  Brattleboro  and  vicinity.  In  the  management  of 
her  estate,  as  already  mentioned,  she  was  singularly  capable,  and  her 
grounds  gave  evidence  of  an  appreciation  of  the  aesthetic;  her  fine 
garden  and  beautiful'  flowers,  in  diamond  or  heart  shaped  beds,  being 
the  particular  admiration  of  the  neighboring  children,  as  the  accounts 
of  those  now  old,  but  who  personally  remember  her,  attest. 

Two  years  before  her  death  she  leased  her  farm,  reserving  to 
herself  all  the  privileges  she  desired,  including  the  use  of  any  four 
rooms  she  might  choose  in  her  house,  and  of  her  horse  and  chaise, 
which  were  to  be  kept  at  her  disposal.  Later,  in  1833,  she  surren- 
dered the  farm  upon  a  life  lease  to  herself.     She  was  most   probably 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1834.  9 

led  to  this  retirement  from  her  active  business  Hfe  by  the  premoni- 
tions of  that  malady,  a  renal  affection,  of  which  she  died  after  a 
short  final  illness, — and  not  because  of  the  infirmities  of  age. 

Mrs.  Marsh  was  not  identified  in  membership  with  any  church,  but 
every  act  of  her  life  bears  witness  to  her  Christian  character.  In 
her  several  donations  and  public  bequests  her  unsectarian  spirit 
found  expression  and  bore  testimony  to  her  large-heartedness.  The 
bell  upon  the  first  meeting-house  in  Hinsdale  village  was  not  given 
by  her  to  the  church,  but  to  the  town,  as  is  shown  by  the  fact  that 
when  finally  broken  the  proceeds  of  its  sale  went  into  the  town 
treasury.  So,  also,  her  bequest  for  the  maintenance  of  public 
preaching  in  Vernon  was  not  made  to  any  church  organization,  but 
to  the  town,  and  for  the  purpose  of  gathering  the  people  together 
for  religious  exercises,  thus  to  controvert  what  she  observed  to  be  a 
laxity  in  the  religious  habits  of  the  people  there.  And,  in  her  larger 
gift,  for  the  founding  of  a  public  institution,  her  philanthropy  was 
likewise  unrestricted.  In  the  spirit  of  the  Master  she  humbly  sought 
"to  provide  a  home  for  the  poor  insane." 


RECORD   OF    1835. 


ELEVEN  months  elapsed  after   the    passage   of   the   Act   of 
Incorporation,  before  the   Trustees  received  the  legacy  of 
Mrs.  Marsh.     Meanwhile,  however,  they  were  not  idle.     Nor 
were  they  alone  interested  in  the  untried  project.      A  lively  interest 
was  manifested  by  the  press  of  the  State  in  the  establishment   of 
such  an  institution  within  the  borders  of  Vermont. 

A  letter  from  E.  C.  Tracy  of  Windsor,  then  proprietor  and  editor 
of  the  Vermont  Chronicle,  to  Mr.  John  C.  Holbrook,  bearing  date 
February  28th,  1835,  is  preserved,  showing  a  personal  enthusiasm  in 
the  matter,  and  which  indicates  a  previous  correspondence  upon  the 
subject.  He  says:  "I  have  just  received  a  letter  from  Dr.  Julius 
[a  German  psychologist  then  in  this  country]  who  informs  me  that 
he  shall  be  in  Boston  at  the  end  of  May,  and  will  be  very  happy  to 
meet  you  there.  He  thinks  it  probable  that  he  may  be  able  to  visit 
with  you  the  institutions  at  Worcester  and  Hartford,  should  you  be 
able  to  do  it  then.  You  will  find  him  an  open-hearted  philanthropist, 
and  one  able  to  give  you  a  great  deal  of  information.  I  hope  for  the 
good  of  our  State,  you  will  not  fail  to  make  arrangements  to  have  an 
interview  with  him.  He  is  now  at  Washington,  but  about  leaving 
for  the  South,  to  return  by  way  of  Albany,  where  he  will  be  about 
the  15th  of  May.  I  will  copy  for  you  so  much  of  his  letter  as  relates 
to  the  Insane  Hospital:  'According  to  what  you  mention,  there  is 
an  objection  to  a  grant  of  the  Legislature  arising  out  of  the  circum- 
stance that  the  new  institution  will  be  under  the  Trustees  of  the 
legacy,  and  not  under  the  control  of  the  Legislature.  This  appar- 
ent obstacle,  might,  I  think,  be  converted  into  an  advantage.  In 
Germany,  where  I  am  sure  lunatic  asylums,  by  the  reflective  and 
philosophic  mind  of  the  nation,  are  better  than  in  any  other  country, 
we  divide  all  such  institutions  into  two  classes,  sometimes  entirely 
separated  and  in  different  places,  sometimes  in  adjoining  localities, 
and  united  under  the  same  administration.  One  of  these  classes 
consists  of  curable  lunatics,  under  which  denomination  I  would  com- 
prise all  cases  not  older  than  two  years'  standing.  After  this  time, 
if  the  physician  of  the  institution  should  [judge]  them  affording 
still  reasonable  hopes  of  restoration,  they  might  be  removed  to  the 
other  institution  or  class,  containing  incurable  lunatics. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1835.  11 

"  '  The  first  class,  certainly  the  most  interesting  to  the  feelings  of 
the  public,  and  that  which  is  most  wanted  anywhere,  and  therefore 
also  in  Vermont,  requires  greater  expense  from  the  variety  of  means 
of  restoration  which  must  be  provided.  But  it  is  more  useful  to 
provide  first  of  all  an  institution  for  this  class,  because  the  increase 
of  lunacy  is  thereby  stopped  in  its  source,  and  because  there  is  rea- 
sonable hope  that  public  sympathy  would  be  awakened,  and  liberal 
contributions  flow  in  from  all  sides,  to  the  fulfilment  of  this  philan- 
thropic enterprise. 

"  *  By  this  division  of  the  two  classes,  the  newly-erected  corporation 
might  limit  its  narrow  means  to  the  first,  leaving  the  second  to  be 
provided  for  by  the  State.  Both  institutions  standing  under  a  sepa- 
rate or  joint  administration,  might  be  erected  one  near  the  other, 
connected  by  the  gardens  whereby  they  are  surrounded,  and  thereby 
taking  away  the  unfavorable  impression  which  in  some  rare  instances 
might  be  made  on  the  friends  of  the  patient,  by  his  passing  from  the 
curables  to  the  incurables.  For  this  last  class  of  unfortunate  beings 
a  milder  name  has  therefore  been  adopted  in  Germany,  and  we  call 
the  houses  where  they  are  kept  Pflegeanstalten, — institutions  for 
taking  care,  for  nursing,  or  nurseries.  A  similar  expression  might 
be  easily  found  in  Vermont. 

" '  Relating  to  the  situation  of  the  Asylum,  it  must  be  high,  healthy, 
not  destitute  of  water,  at  some  distance  from  any  public  road,  and 
from  the  curiosity  of  passers-by,  and  with  as  much  land  as  possible 
for  gardens  and  fields;  laborious  exertion  in  cultivating  them  being 
one  of  the  principal  means  of  restoration.  Fifty  acres  would  be  the 
smallest  extent  of  ground  which  I  find  desirable. 

''  'According  to  my  ideas  relating  to  the  treatment  of  the  insane,  a 
mad-house  ought  never  to  be  one  large  building  with  different  stories 
(an  objection  which  applies  to  the  Asylum  at  Worcester,  and  I  be- 
lieve also  to  that  at  Hartford)  but  it  ought  to  comprise  different 
small  houses,  each  with  a  small  garden,  according  to  the  different 
varieties  of  the  diseased. 

"  'As  the  means  of  the  institution  are  so  small,  I  propose  therefore 
.to  erect  first  a  house  whose  center  building  might  be  thirty  feet  long 
and  have  two  wings  each  fifteen  feet  long.  The  center  building 
would  be  two  stories  high,  serving  as  a  dwelling-house  for  the  phy- 
sician, who  must  live  in  the  institution,  and  as  the  seat  of  the  admin- 
istration, and  of  the  offices;  both  wings  one  story  high,  the  one  for 
new-comers,  to  be  under  the  physician's  uninterrupted  observation, 
and  the  other  for  convalescents. 


12  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

"  '  Besides  this  large  building,  which  might  accommodate  from 
eight  to  twelve  patients,  I  would  erect  two  small  one-story  cottages? 
one  for  maniacs,  and  one  for  melancholies;  the  first  for  four  and  the 
other  for  eight  patients.  All  these  three  buildings  might  easily  be 
enlarged  as  the  means  increase,  by  building  in  the  same  direction  in 
which  they  stand.  All  the  one-story  buildings  ought  to  have  a  cellar 
for  securing  the  patients  against  dampness,  and  for  warming  their 
rooms  by  hot  air.  The  relative  position  of  the  three  buildings,  so 
that  they  all  may  be  under  the  occular  inspection  of  the  physician,  I 
must  reserve  to  indicate  when  I  shall  perhaps  have  the  pleasure  of 
an  interview  with  Mr.  Holbrook,  and  the  advantage  of  seeing  a 
ground  plan  of  the  place  where  the  Asylum  is  to  be  erected.'  " 

Mr.  Tracy  concludes  as  follows: 

"  If  desirable  I  can  communicate  with  Dr.  Julius  again  before  he 
reaches  Boston.  I  must  repeat  my  hope  that  if  practicable  you  will 
arrange  your  business  so  as  to  be  in  Boston  at  the  end  of  May,  for 
I  feel  very  anxious  to  have  the  proposed  institution  become  a 
model." 

The  smallness  of  the  bequest  v/as  from  the  first  a  matter  of  grave 
consideration  by  the  Trustees.  It  was  a  current  remark  by  citizens 
and  business  men,  that  a  failure  would  be  the  most  probable  result 
of  an  undertaking  so  slenderly  endowed.  There  is  evidence  that  the 
three  older  members  of  the  Board  doubted  the  expediency  of 
attempting  to  carry  out  the  conditions  of  the  will.  To  Mr.  John  C. 
Holbrook  (the  junior  member)  is  undoubtedly  due  the  credit  of 
assuming  at  this  juncture,  in  earnest,  the  work  necessary  to  the 
inauguration  of  the  enterprise,  which  his  energy  and  sanguine  tem- 
perament fitted  him  especially  for. 

The  organization  of  the  Board  took  place  September  28,  1835, 
pursuant  to  notice  signed  by  Samuel  Clark,  and  published  in  the 
Vermont  Phoenix  of  September  11.  The  first  meeting  was  held  at 
Col.  Chase's  stage-house  in  Brattleboro.  The  meeting  was  called 
to  order  by  Samuel  Clark,  and,  after  reading  the  Act  of  Incorpo- 
ration, the  corporation  was  organized  by  choosing  Samuel  Clark, 
chairman;  E.  Seymour,  treasurer;  John  C.  Holbrook,  secretary — to 
hold  their  .offices  until  others  were  chosen.  The  meeting  was  then 
adjourned  to  meet  at  the  Bank  of  Brattleboro  on  the  third  of  October 
ensuing. 

The  Trustees  met  pursuant  to  adjournment.  Asa  Keyes,  Esq., 
one  of  the  executors  of  the  will  of  Mrs.  Anna  Marsh,  appeared,  and 
stated  "  That  he  was  ready  to  deliver  over  to  the  corporation  ten 
thousand  dollars,  according  to  the  directions  in  said  will,  provided 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR   1835.  13 

the  Trustees  would  take  such  notes  as  were  on  hand  belonghig  to 
the  estate,  to  draw  interest  from  this  date.  That  there  was  not  so 
much  money  on  hand  collected,  and  unless  this  proposal  was 
accepted  the  donation  could  not  be  paid  until  the  money  was  col- 
lected, and  then  be  paid  proportionally  with  other  legacies,  with  the 
risk  of  there  not  being  enough  realized  from  the  estate  to  pay  the 
whole." 

"  After  consultation  by  the  Trustees,  and  considering  the  above 
remarks,  and  taking  into  view  that  if  the  notes  were  not  taken  (which 
they  deemed  to  be  all  good)  the  interest  would  be  lost  until  the 
money  was  paid,  which  otherwise  would  accumulate  on  these  notes, 
it  was  voted  to  receive  them  in  full  payment  of  the  legacy,  and  a 
receipt  was  accordingly  given  to  Mr.  Keyes  signed  by  all  the  Trus- 
tees, and  the  notes  [thirteen  in  number,  together  with  a  cash  check 
for  balance  due],  were  deposited  in  the  Bank  of  Brattleboro." 

At  the  same  m.eeting  it  was  also  voted  to  pay  Mr.  Keyes  the 
amount  of  his  charges  for  time  and  expenses  at  Montpelier,  in  procur- 
ing the  Act  of  Incorporation  in  accordance  with  the  stipulations  of  the 
will,  and  that  the  location  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane  be 
fixed  in  Brattleboro  in  Windham  County.  It  was  further  voted  to 
loan  the  money  on  hand,  with  good  security,  and  that  the  ofiicers 
chosen  at  their  last  meeting  hold  their  offices  for  one  year  or  until 
others  were  chosen;  also,  that  the  secretary  be  authorized  to  call 
future  meetings,  on  application  of  any  member  of  the  Board  of 
Trustees,  by  notifying  each  member  personally,  or  by  leaving  a 
written  notice  at  his  dwelling. 

The  question  now  uppermost  was  upon  what  scale  the  institution 
should  be  started.  Should  it  be  in  any  way  commensurate  to  the 
needs  of  Vermont,  or  should  it  make  no  aim  to  serve  the  State,  but 
be  merely  a  family  home  for  a  limited  number,  wholly  independent 
of  any  relation  to  the  State  ? 

At  the  time  of  the  incorporation  of  the  Vermont  Asylum,  there 
were  but  ten  such  institutions  in  the  United  States,*  and  of  these 
but  three  were  in  New  England.  The  McLean  Asylum  at  Somer- 
ville,  Mass.,  was  the  oldest  of  these.  The  Connecticut  Retreat  at 
Hartford  had  been  ten  years  in  successful  operation.  The  hospital 
at  Worcester,  which  had  been  recently  erected  as  a  pioneer  estab- 

*Besides  proprietary  plants,  institutions  exclusively  devoted  to  the  care  and 
treatment  of  the  insane  had  been  established  as  follows:  At  Williamsburg,  Va., 
1773.  Frankford,  Pa.,  1817.  Somerville,  Mass.,  18-18.  Bloomingdale,  N  Y.. 
1821.  Hartford,  Ct.,  1824.  Lexington,  Ky.,  1824.  Columbia,  S.  C,  1827. 
Staunton,  Va.,  1828.      Worcester,  Mass.,  1833.     Baltimore,  Md,,  1834. 


14  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

lishment  under  the  auspices  of  the  State  of  Massachusetts,  naturally 
attracted  popular  attention,  and  awakened  in  the  neighboring  States 
a  desire  that  similar  ones  should  be  opened  to  their  own  citizens. 

Recognizing  this,  and  sharing  in  the  popular  feeling,  the  Trustees 
determined  to  present  the  matter  to  the  consideration  of  the  repre- 
sentatives of  the  people  in  their  report  to  the  General  Assembly 
then  about  to  convene.     The  following  is  this  document  in  full: 

To  THE  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of  Vermont  now  in 

Session  : 

The  Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane,  agreeably 
to  the  requisitions  of  their  Act  of  Incorporation,  respectfully 

REPORT 

That  they  have  lately  received  of  the  executors  of  Mrs.  Anna 
Marsh,  deceased,  ten  thousand  dollars,  the  sum  bequeathed  by  her 
for  the  foundation  of  an  institution  for  the  insane,  and  that  they 
have  proceeded  to  fix  its  location  in  Brattleboro,  the  terms  of  the 
will  restricting  them  to  some  place  in  Windham  County  near  Con- 
necticut River. 

The  Trustees  also  take  this  opportunity  to  remind  your  Honor- 
able Body  of  what  must  be  obvious  to  every  one,  that  the  sum  of  ten 
thousand  dollars  is  far  from  being  adequate  to  the  establishment  of 
such  an  institution  as  shall  be  commensurate  with  the  wants  of  this 
State,  and  in  which  the  most  approved  and  scientific  treatment  can 
be  adopted.  Thirty  thousand  dollars  at  least  are  required;  and  as 
this  is  a  subject  of  general  interest  and  one  which  commends  itself 
to  every  benevolent  mind,  the  Trustees  cannot  but  express  their  hope 
that  your  Honorable  Body  will  take  some  measures  at  your  present 
session  for  supplying  such  additional  sum  as  may  be  requisite  for 
the  accomplishment  of  an  object  of  great  importance  to  a  large  and 
interesting  class  of  our  fellow  citizens. 

The  establishment  of  Insane  Hospitals  has  for  several  years  past 
occupied  a  prominent  place  in  the  thoughts  of  betievolent  individ- 
uals, and  in  the  deliberations  of  several  of  the  State  Legislatures. 
In  Massachusetts  it  is  well  known  that  an  Insane  Hospital  on  an  ex- 
tensive plan  has  been  erected  entirely  at  the  expense  of  the  State,  in 
addition  to  a  large  one  already  in  existence  [SomervilleJ  under  pri- 
vate control.  In  Connecticut,  also,  an  Insane  Retreat  has  by  its 
great  success  and  happy  influence  been  demonstrating  the  advan- 
tages of  such  institutions;  while  Maine,  New  Hampshire  and 
New  York  have  taken  effective  measures  to  extend  the  benefits  of 
similar  establishments  to  the  insane  within  their  respective  limits. 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEAR    1835.  15 

Vermont  alone,  of  all  the  New  England  States,  has  made  no  provision 
for  the  relief  of  this  afflicted  class  of  her  citizens. 

Should  it  be  said  that  nothing  is  required  of  her  in  addition  to 
what  has  been  done  in  the  adjoining  States,  and  that  their  insti- 
tutions will  be  adequate  to  the  wants  of  their  own  and  our  citizens, 
it  may  be  replied  that  Vermont  ought  not  surely  to  be  indebted  to 
her  neighbors  for  the  advantages  of  all  these  institutions  for  the 
relief  of  the  unfortunate.  Besides  it  has  been  found  by  actual  exam- 
inations in  the  three  adjoining  States,  that  the  number  of  the  insane 
is  one  in  every  thousand  of  the  inhabitants  ;  giving  to  New  York 
about  one  thousand,  to  Massachusetts  six  hundred,  and  New  Hamp- 
shire between  two  and  three  hundred,  and  in  the  same  ratio  to  this 
State,  nearly  three  hundred.  It  is  apparent  then  that  the  public 
wants  require  an  institution  for  the  insane  in  this  State  ;  and  the 
Trustees  indulge  the  hope  that  on  such  a  foundation  as  is  laid  by 
the  generous  donation  entrusted  to  their  hands,  a  superstructure 
may  be  raised  which  shall  prove  at  once  an  honor  to  the  State,  and  an 
inestimable  blessing  to  her  citizens.  The  vast  advantages  of  such 
institutions,  and  their  great  importance  to  the  community,  are  now 
established  beyond  dispute.  Formerly,  insanity  was  not  only  deemed 
an  incurable  disease,  and  consequently  neglected,  but  an  idea  pre- 
vailed that  its  subjects  were  unconscious  of  bodily  suffering.  Hence 
recent  examinations  in  adjoining  States  have  disclosed  an  amount 
of  misery  endured  by  its  unfortunate  victims  almost  unparalleled 
and  almost  beyond  belief.  Cases  of  equal  severity  and  aggravation 
in  this  State  have  also  come  to  the  knowledge  of  the  Trustees — one, 
they  cannot  forbear  to  record.  It  is  that  of  a  man  now,  or  until 
lately,  confined  in  a  cave  by  his  ignorant  not  to  say  inhuman  father, 
for  the  crime  of  insanity.  The  lateral  dimensions  of  his  apartment 
were  such  as  scarcely  to  admit  of  a  change  of  position,  while  its 
height  utterly  forbade  its  miserable  inmate  to  stand  erect.  The  floor 
was  of  stone,  through  which,  by  means  of  fire  beneath,  was  commu- 
nicated what  little  warmth  was  admitted  to  this  cheerless  abode. 
Here  the  victim  was  condemned  to  prolong  a  miserable  existence, 
until  at  length  his  body  assumed  a  frightful  deformity,  while  from 
his  mind  was  erased  probably  the  last  remaining  trace  of  reason, 
which  haply  better  or  more  kindly  treatment  might  have  restored 
to  its  original  vigor.  Indeed  it  seems  on  reading  the  well-authenti- 
cated statements  of  similar  discoveries  in  other  States,  as  though  the 
human  mind  had  been  racked  to  discover  modes  of  torture  for  this* 
afflicted  class  of  people,  more  terrible  than  those  of  the  Inquisition 
itself.     To  use  the  language  of  the  commissioners  of  the  Massachu- 


i6  ANNALS   OF    THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

setts  Lunatic  Hospital,  "  From  the  absence  of  suitable  institutions 
the  insane  have  been  visited  with  a  heavier  doom  than  that  inflicted 
on  the  voluntary  contemners  of  the  law,"  and  from  comparisons 
made  by  the  commissioners  they  "  cannot  entertain  a  doubt  that  the 
aggregate  of  the  terms  of  the  confinement  under  the  poor  debtor 
law,  has  been  much  less  than  that  of  the  imprisonment  of  the 
insane." 

At  the  present  day,  and  in  communities  otherwise  highly  enlight- 
ened, there  is  reason  to  fear  that  a  lamentable  degree  of  ignorance 
prevails  upon  the  subject  of  insanity,  an  ignorance  which,  could  it 
be  once  dispelled,  some  of  the  most  painful  records  in  the  history  of 
human  suffering  might  be  closed  immediately.  It  is  now  abundantly 
demonstrated  that  with  appropriate  medical  and  moral  treatment, 
insanity  yields  with  more  readiness  than  ordinary  diseases.  This 
cheering  fact  is  established  by  a  series  of  experiments.  A  few  indi- 
viduals justly  entitled  to  a  conspicuous  station  among  the  benefactors 
of  their  race,  have  exploded  the  barbarous  doctrine  that  cruelty 
is  the  proper  antidote  to  madness,  and  "self-devotion  to  the  welfare 
of  the  insane  is  the  only  efficacious  means  of  their  restoration."  In 
the  principal  institutions  the  proportion  of  cures  varies  from  forty 
to  ninety  per  cent ;  while  it  is  believed  that  in  seventy-five  out  of 
every  hundred  cases,  as  usually  treated,  the  disease  has  become 
permanently  fixed. 

The  Trustees  of  the  Massachusetts  Lunatic  Hospital,  in  their 
second  and  last  Annual  Report,  after  stating  the  fact,  "  that  almost 
from  the  first  moment  of  its  being  opened,  the  building  has  been 
filled  with  inmates,  and  during  the  preceding  year  one  hundred 
and  nineteen  patients  had  been  received,  and  a  large  number  refused 
admission  for  want  of  room  (93  applications  being  made  in  five 
months,  and  46  of  them  rejected),  the  cures  being  fifty-five  and 
three-fourths  percent,"  go  on  to  remark  as  follows:  "The  experi- 
ment of  this  institution  has  abundantly  and  happily  shown  that  there 
are  very  few  cases  of  derangement  or  obliquity  of  intellect,  which 
may  not  be  ameliorated  by  the  kindly  influences  of  humane 
treatment.  In  this  respect  the  bounty  of  the  Commonwealth  has  not 
been  misapplied."  The  result,  in  the  opinion  of  the  Trustees,  has 
entirely  exceeded  the  most  sanguine  expectations,  and  this  alone  is  a 
consummation  which  can  neither  be  weighed  nor  measured  by  any 
pecuniary  considerations  whatever. 

"  The  Trustees  cannot  therefore  but  bchcvc  that  this  object 
will  commend  itself  to  the  favorable  notice  of  your  Honorable  Body, 
and  that  the  importance  will  be  felt  of  procuring  an  institution  for 


Trustees  of  the 

y  Vermont     Asylum 

for  the  Insane. 


RECORDS    OF    THE    YEAR    1835.  17 

the  relief  of  the  insane,  convenient  for  the  citizens  of  this  State, — 
that  they  may  be  able  and  induced  to  place  all  cases  of  insanity, 
while  yet  recent,  under  proper  treatment,  in  which  event  it  is 
believed  nearly  every  patient  may  be  restored  to  soundness  and 
usefulness.  To  accomplish  this  highly  important  and  most  desirable 
object,  the  Trustees  respectfully  pray  your  Honorable  Body  to 
appropriate  the  sum  of  twenty  thousand  dollars,  with  such  provisions 
as  shall  seem  necessary  and  proper.  All  of  which  is  respectfully 
submitted. 

Samuel  Clark, 
John  Holbrook, 
Epaphro'  Seymour, 
John  C.  Holbrook, 

October  7,  1835. 

In  furtherance  of  the  proposition  urged  in  the  foregoing  report, 
for  the  State  to  aid  in  extending  the  capacity  of  the  institution 
already  established  within  its  borders,  so  as  to  enable  it  to  meet 
to  a  recognizable  extent  the  probable  demands  of  the  insane  of  Ver- 
mont, Mr.  Keyes  was  employed  to  present  the  matter,  in  behalf  of 
the  Trustees,  to  the  Legislators  and  the  Council. 

The  result  of  this  mission  is  found  in  the  following  letter  from 
Mr.  Keyes  to  the  Trustees,  which  has  been  preserved : 

"  I  have  just  got  the  enclosed  Act  through  the  Council,  and 
although  it  is  somewhat  clogged  with  provisos,  I  am  perfectly  satis- 
fied no  other  act  could  have  been  carried,  and  I  believe  this  ten 
thousand  dollars  will  be  a  handsome  addition  to  that  already  on 
hand.  I  do  not  consider  the  repealing  proviso  as  any  objection,  for 
such  provisos  are  customary  here,  but  a  future  legislature  will  not 
avail  itself  of  it.  *****  *  Owing  to  the 
confined  limitation  of  the  will,  as  to  the  sole  superintendence  of  the 
Hospital,  it  was  a  difficult  thing  to  get  any  appropriation  here." 

The  following  is  the  Act  passed  November  9,  1835,  and  referred 
to  in  the  foregoing  letter: 

''  An  Act  directing  the  Treasurer  to  pay  to  the  Trustees  of  the 
Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane,  the  sum  therein  named. 

"  It  is  hereby  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Vermont,  that  the  Treasurer  of  this  State  be,  and  he  hereby  is, 
directed  to  pay  to  the  order  of  the  Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum 
for  the  Insane,  the  sum  of  two  thousand  dollars  annually,  for  five 
successive  years,  out  of  any  money  in  the  treasury  not  otherwise 
appropriated,  to  enable  the  said  Trustees  the  more  effectually  to 
promote  the  benevolent  designs  of  said  Institution,     Provided,  that 


i8  ANNALS   OF   THE  VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

the  said  Trustees  shall  take  no.  benefit  from  the  provisions  of  this 
Act,  until  they  have  so  far  erected  the  buildings  and  organized 
said  Asylum,  as  to  receive  patients  therein.  Provided  also,  that  any 
future  legislature  may  alter,  amend,  or  repeal  this  Act." 

In  the  procurement  of  the  Charter,  as  well  as  of  the  foregoing 
Act,  Mr.  Keyes  was  the  accredited  agent  of  the  Board,  but  it 
does  not  appear  by  the  records  of  the  Trustees  that  he  was  charged 
on  either  occasion  with  any  propositions  other  than  were  accom- 
plished by  the  passage  of  the  Acts  mentioned. 

Yet  in  his  testimony  before  the  Legislative  Committee  in  1878, 
before  referred  to,  he  says,  "  After  the  money  [the  Marsh  Legacy] 
was  paid  to  the  Trustees,  I  went  to  Montpelier  and  got  an  Act 
of  Incorporation.  I  remember  very  well  some  members  objected  to 
it,  on  the  ground  that  the  Legislature  had  nothing  to  do  with  it ;  we 
were  a  separate  corporation,  and  controlled  ourselves  entirely.  I 
then  told  these  individuals  that  they  might  appoint  four  trustees 
to  act  with  our  four  trustees,  and  have  an  equal  voice.  I  was 
advised  by  Norman  Williams,  the  Secretary  of  State,  and  others, 
not  to  let  the  Legislature  have  anything  to  do  with  it.  He  said  if  it 
got  into  the  hands  of  the  Legislature  they  would  ruin  the  institution  ; 
there  would  be  so  many  parties  they  would  always  quarrel  about  it." 

It  is  probable  that  Mr.  Keyes,  who  was  ninety-one  years  old 
when  the  above  testimony  was  given,  was  somewhat  confused  in 
respect  to  the  time  when  this  matter  was  discussed,  for  in  notes  taken 
upon  some  of  the  early  points  of  the  history  of  the  Asylum,  five 
years  before,  he  stated  clearly  that  "with  Mrs.  Marsh  there  never 
was  an  intention  that  her  bequest  should  become  in  any  manner 
connected  with  any  other  bequest,  or  public  appropriation.  It  was 
not  contemplated  by  her.  The  question  of  associating  with  it  State 
aid  was  not  debated  nor  considered  at  the  time  of  the  incorporation 
of  the  institution,  by  either  the  Assembly  or  the  Council,"  before 
whom  Mr.  Keyes  urged  the  Charter.  It  was  doubtless  at  the  time 
that  the  first  Legislative  appropriation  was  asked  for,  that  these  indi- 
vidual views  were  expressed,  and  that  the  appointment  of  co- 
trustees was  suggested  by  Mr.  Keyes. 

Immediately  after  the  passage  of  the  foregoing  Act,  the  plans  of 
the  Trustees  began  to  crystallize  into  definite  shape. 

At  a  meeting  held  December  21st  they  Voted,  "To  proceed  to 
purchase  land  for  the  location  of  the  Asylum,  and  to  erect  a  building 
or  buildings  for  the  reception  of  patients." 

At  another  meeting,  held  December  26th,  "several  propositions 
were  received  for  purchasing  land  for  the  location  of  the  Asylum." 


plBiii:i|iiiJi!.H-  1 1 1  iiiPii  'i  %\ 
\ 


RECORD   OF    1836. 


THE  beginning  of  this  year  was  devoted  to  the  important  work 
of  selecting  a  suitable  site,  and  meetings,  formal  and  informal, 
were  held  for  the  consideration  of  this  very  vital  question. 

Among  the  propositions  submitted  was  one  including  ten  acres 
of  land  at  $200  per  acre,  embracing  an  area  north  of  the  line  of 
house  lots  on  the  north  side  of  High  street  and  west  of  the  line  of 
house  lots  on  the  west  side  of  Main  street,  as  far  north  as  the  Unita- 
rian church,  thence  running  west  parallel  with  High  street,  to  what 
is  now  Highland  Park,  then  owned  by  Wells  Goodhue ;  and 
another  of  seventeen  acres  on  the  east  side  of  the  Putney  road, 
then  owned  by  Messrs.  Minott,  Keyes,  Bradley  and  Pettis,  for 
about  $70  per  acre,  together  with  about  nine  acres  on  the  oppo- 
site side  of  said  road,  then  owned  by  Judge  Whitney,  if  desired,  at 
about  the  same  rate. 

A  third  proposition  embraced  what  was  called  the  Kingsley  farm, 
which  was  then  owned  by  Francis  and  Joseph  Goodhue,  afterward 
by  Nelson  Crosby  and  Newman  Allen,  and  which  was  finally  added 
to  the  Asylum  estate  in  1858. 

This  property  embraced  at  the  time  it  was  offered  as  a  site  285 
acres,  in  which  half  the  area  of  the  meadow  was  included.  Two 
houses,  six  barns,  a  cider  mill,  150  feet  of  sheds,  one  chaise  house  and 
one  corn  barn  were  located  thereon.  This  was  offered  for  a  total 
of  $14,500,  or  something  over  $50  per  acre  on  the  average. 

The  foregoing  are  all  the  proposals  that  seem  to  have  been 
definitely  made  and  submitted  to  the  Trustees  in  black  and  white  ; 
but  other  sites  were  considered  by  them,  particularly  the  plateau 
west  of  the  village  cemetery,  and  the  tract  now  known  as  Mechanics' 
or  Forest  Square,  west  of  Highland  Park.  The  proposition 
for  the  ten  acres  north  of  High  and  west  of  Main  streets  was 
probably  rejected  on  account  of  its  limited  area.  That  on  the 
Putney  road,  now  the  fine  estate  of  Mr.  Richards  Bradley,  was  decided 
against  because  of  the  difficulty  of  procuring  water  supply, 
although  the  Trustees  were  strongly  inclined  toward  it. 


20  ANNALS    OF  THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

The  Kingsley  farm  exceeded  the  means  at  the  disposal  of  the 
Trustees,  and  besides  had  no  building  plateau  of  sufficient  size,  at  a 
desirable  elevation. 

On  the  25th  of  May  the  Trustees  met,  all  being  present,  and  after 
duly  considering  all  the  propositions  for  sites,  which  they  had  carefully 
examined,  Voted,  "  To  purchase  the  situation  in  Brattleboro  village, 
owned  and  occupied  by  Mr.  Nathan  Woodcock,  about  six  acres,  and 
the  meadow-land  adjoining,  owned  by  Ebenezer  Wells,  consisting  of 
about  forty-five  acres,  on  the  best  terms  possible." 

They  then  proceeded  to  make  a  bargain  for  the  same,  and  finally 
agreed  with  Mr.  Woodcock  for  his  premises,  at  $3,500,  and  with  Mr. 
Wells  for  the  meadow-land  at  $62  per  acre,  or  $2,700. 

A  few  rods  of  land  lying  along  the  east  side  of  the  Newfane  road, 
a  narrow  strip  between  this  road  and  the  forty-five  acres  of  meadow 
purchased  of  Eben'r  Wells,  was  bought  of  Houghton  Pike,  near 
the  close  of  this  year  [December  loth]  for  a  nominal  consideration 
of  $8. 

The  original  purchase  of  Nathan  Woodcock  embraced  about  two 
acres  only  on  the  westerly  side  of  the  road  ;  but  here  was  situated 
the  mansion  house,  a  two-story  wood  building,  which  was  subse- 
quently known  and  designated  as  the  "White  House,"  until  finally 
giving  place  to  the  brick  building  now  known  as  the  "  Marsh 
Building."  On  the  opposite  side  of  the  road,  on  the  same  plateau, — 
now  the  site  of  the  main  buildings, — were  four  acres  more,  then 
used  as  a  garden.  The  meadow  land  was  contiguous  to  the  garden 
on  the  north,  and  after  the  purchase  of  the  narrow  intervening 
strip  of  Houghton  Pike,  was  bounded  by  the  county  road  upon 
its  westerly  side. 

A  letter  bearing  date,  Boston,  May  27th,  to  Mr.  John  C.  Holbrook, 
from  Rev.  Louis  Dwight,  at  that  time  secretary  of  the  Prison  Disci- 
pline society,  and  an  active  philanthropist,  attests  his  view  of  the 
fitness  of  the  location  thus  secured,  as  follows :  "  I  received 
your  letter  of  the  25th  inst.  this  morning,  and  reply  without  delay.  I 
have  no  doubt  you  have  decided  wisely  in  regard  to  your  location 
for  the  Asylum.  I  never  supposed  that  the  place  which  you  describe 
could  be  purchased  at  any  price.  I  understood,  when  I  was  in 
Brattleborough,  that  it  was  owned  by  a  man  of  fortune  who  had 
retired  from  the  busy  scenes  of  life  to  enjoy  that  beautiful  retreat, 
and  as  I  saw  it  was  fitted  up  in  a  style  of  taste  and  beauty  which 
is  not  surpassed,  in  my  judgment,  by  any  country  seat  in  the  environs 
of  Boston,  New  York,  or  Philadelphia,  and  had  such  a  profusion  of 
flowers,  shrubs,  and  fruits,  why !    of  course  —  as  I  supposed,  no  man 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEAR    1836.  21 

of  fortune  would  sell  such  a  place.  I  should  always  have  preferred 
that  house,  and  that  location,  to  the  farm-house  location  [the 
Kingsley  farm  already  noted]  but  I  consider  it  more  of  the  perfec- 
tion of  beauty  of  nature  and  art  to  unite  that  house  and  grounds, 
with  as  much  of  the  meadow  as  was  wanted,  than  could  be  aspired  to 
by  any  man.  It  appears  now,  from  your  last  letter,  that  you  have 
secured  this  house  and  grounds  for  the  insane,  and  can  have  as  much 
of  the  meadow  and  woodland  as  you  want,  together  with  spring 
of  water,  at  fair  prices,  and  that  you  have  already  purchased  forty- 
five  acres  of  meadow  land.  I  can  only  say  that  so  far  as  my  obser- 
vation extends  there  is  not  a  more  beautiful  spot  of  earth  than 
that  which  you  have  secured  in  Vermont  for  the  insane.*  The 
location  of  the  publick  institutions  at  Charlestown  [McLean 
AsylumJ,  Worcester,  Hartford,  Bloomingdale,  bear  no  comparison 
with  it  in  my  mind's  eye.  I  beg  of  you  to  perfect  your  work  as 
to  location,  by  securing  as  much  of  the  meadow,  woodland,  and 
pasture  as  you  will  ever  want,  before  you  have  to  pay  the  exorbitant 
prices  which  this  selfish  world  will  charge  such  an  institution,  as 
soon  as  it  is  understood  that  the  land  must  be  had.  They  have 
actually  been  obliged  to  purchase  several  acres  at  Charlestown  this 
spring,  for  the  use  of  the  asylum,  at  $1000  per  acre.  We  shall 
be  obliged  to  lay  down  the  principles  in  our  Report  of  the  present 
year,  which  will  make  it  manifest  that  your  institution  must  have 
more  of  that  land,  and  when  this  is  done  it  would  not  be  strange 
if  the  price  of  the  land  should  rise  one-half  or  one-third  at  once.  If 
you  cannot  now  purchase,  can  you  not  get  the  refusal,  or  a  bond  for 
a  deed  of  so  much  as  you  require.  I  want  you  should  have  at  least 
one  hundred  acres  of  meadow  land,  and  fifty  of  woodland  and 
pasture. 

"One  word  as  to  the  enlargement  of  your  buildings  :  do  not  do  it 
without  being  certain  of  doing  it  right.  If  you  secure  Dr.  Rockwell, 
and  let  the  correspondence  between  him  and  those  who  have  expe- 
rience be  fiill  and  free  before  you  decide,  I  think  you  will  not  err. 
Dr.  Lee's  plan  I  admire.  I  think  I  sent  you  a  rough  draught.  It  is 
much  approved  by  Dr.  Woodward,  I  understand.     I  have  nothing 

*  Lest  this  description  of  the  chosen  site  be  suspected  to  be  overdrawn  or 
too  high  colored,  I  note  the  view  of  Dr.  D.  Hack  Tuke,  the  celebrated  English 
alienist,  who  visited  the  United  States  in  1884 — a  half  century  later,  to  wit  : 

"  I  may  say  in  conclusion,  that  it  is  difificult  to  convey  an  adequate  idea  of  the 
beauty  of  the  grounds  and  surrounding  hills  of  the  Vermont  Asylum.  English 
medical  superintendents  should  supply  the  defects  of  ray  description  by  a  personal 
visit." — The  Insane  in  the  United  States  and  Canada.     Page  106. 


22  ANNALS    OF    THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

further  to  communicate  concerning  Dr.  Rockwell,  than  was  contained 
in  the  copy  of  Dr.  Lee's  letter,  which  according  to  my  minutes,  I 
sent  you,  and  which  I  supposed  decided  the  case  in  favor  of 
Dr.  Rockwell.  You,  or  any  one  whom  I  had  heard  mention,  never 
intended  to  compare  the  young  gentleman  under  Dr.  Lee,  in  his 
present  stage  of  education  and  experience,  with  Dr.  Rockwell ;  and 
Dr.  Lee  never  mentioned  him  as  a  person  being  now  qualified  to 
take  charge  of  an  institution,  but  only  as  one  who  had  most  val- 
uable foundation  to  build  on  for  future  usefulness  in  this  department 
of  labor.  So  far  as  my  knowledge  extends,  I  think  you  would  do 
very  well  to  secure  Dr.  Rockwell,  and  to  do  it  at  once,  for  the 
reasons  mentioned  in  your  letter.       ******** 

*  *  *  J  shall  write  to  Mr.  McVean,  one  of  the  commis- 
sioners for  locating  the  New  York  asylum,  that  they  ought  not  to 
locate  without  sending  one  of  their  number  to  Brattleborough,  that 
he  may  see  what  advantages  of  nature  and  art  can  be  secured  in  the 
location  of  an  asylum,  if  proper  care  and  pains  are  taken.  I  con- 
gratulate you,  and  the  gentlemen  associated  with  you,  on  your  most 
excellent  location.  1  hope  it  may  be  an  example  to  many  of  good 
sense,  and  wisdom,  and  humanity  in  the  location  of  such  institutions." 

The  site  having  been  secured,  the  next  step  of  the  Trustees  was 
the  election  of  a  medical  superintendent.  As  foreshadowed  in  the 
foregoing  letter,  Dr.  Rockwell  was  the  choice  of  the  Board,  as 
appears  by  the  following  record  : 

At  a  meeting  of  the  Trustees  held  June  28th,  Voted,  "  To  appoint 
Dr.  W.  H.  Rockwell  of  Hartford,  superintendent  of  the  Asylum 
for  one  year,  to  commence  in  September  ensuing,  or  as  soon  as  the 
premises  can  be  prepared  for  the  reception  of  patients.  Salary,  one 
thousand  dollars — himself,  wife  and  two  children  to  be  boarded  by 
the  institution,  and  to  reside  in  the  building  free  of  rent ;  he  to 
furnish  the  parlor  and  his  own  chamber, — it  being  understood  that 
himself  and  wife  also  discharge  the  duties  of  steward  and  matron." 
Also,  Voted,  "  To  build  an  addition  to  the  present  building  sufficient 
to  accommodate  twelve  to  sixteen  patients,  as  soon  as  possible  ;  Mr. 
J.  C.  Holbrook  to  make  arrangements  for  the  same  being  done." 

Dr.  Rockwell  having  agreed  to  the  terms,  it  was  concluded  to 
commence  operations  with  the  Institution  as  soon  as  arrangements 
could  be  made. 

It  is  a  matter  of  record  also,  that  Dr.  Rockwell  surrendered  vol- 
untarily four-hundred  dollars  of  his  salary  the  first  year,  a  fact 
showing  how  strongly  he  felt  himself  personally  identified  with 
the  success  of  the  enterprise  at  its  very  beginning. 


RECORD    OF    THE   YEAR    1836.  23 

On  the  7th  of  October  the  Trustees  met  and  adopted  the  follow- 
ing 

REPORT. 

To  THE  Honorable  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of  Ver- 
mont, NOW  IN  Session. 

The  undersigned,  Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the 
Insane,  respectfully  submit  their  Second  Annual  Report.  During 
the  past  year  the  attention  of  the  Trustees  has  been  directed  to 
the  selection  of  a  suitable  site  for  the  Institution,  and  the  preparation 
of  the  necessary  buildings.  After  mature  consideration  and  consul- 
tation with  several  gentlemen  in  different  parts  of  New  England, 
best  qualified  to  give  advice  on  the  subject,  a  situation  was  selected 
and  purchased,  which  it  is  believed  combines  as  many  advantages  as 
that  of  any  other  similar  institution.  The  premises  consist  of  a 
large  dwelling-house,  surrounded  with  grounds  tastefully  laid  out, 
and  ornamented  with  rare  and  valuable  shrubbery  and  fruit  trees, 
and  about  four  acres  of  highly  cultivated  land  additional  [six  acres 
in  all],  sufficiently  retired,  and  yet  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  the 
village  of  Brattleboro.  Gardening  and  agricultural  occupations 
being  found  among  the  most  successful  remedial  means  in  the  treat- 
ment of  insanity,'' it  was  deemed  highly  important  to  attach  a  small 
farm  to  the  Institution.  Accordingly  about  forty-five  acres  of 
meadow  adjoining  the  first-named  premises  were  purchased,  and  in 
this  respect  the  institution  will  have  a  decided  advantage  over  any 
other  similar  one  now  in  operation  in  this  country.  An  addition 
has  been  made  to  the  dwelling-house,  consisting  of  a  wing  containing 
eight  rooms,  the  whole  affording  accommodations  for  about  twenty 
patients.  The  cost  of  the  original  purchase  was  $6,200,  including 
the  meadow  land.  That  of  the  additions  when  completed,  together 
with  the  furniture,  will  increase  the  expenditure  to  about  $9,000, 
absorbing  nearly  all  the  funds  now  on  hand.  It  is  expected  the 
arrangements  will  be  so  far  completed  as  to  admit  of  the  reception 
of  patients  early  in  the  ensuing  month. 

For  the  office  of  superintendent  the  Trustees  believe  they  have 
been  exceedingly  fortunate  in  securing  the  services  of  Dr.  William 
H.  Rockwell,  lately  assistant  superintendent  of  the  Connecticut 
Retreat  for  the  insane.  That  institution,  it  is  well  known,  stood 
in  the  first  rank  under  the  care  of  the  late  Dr.  Todd.  Dr.  Rockwell 
had  the  advantage  of  being  for  some  time  connected  with  it  during 
the  life  of  Dr.  Todd,  and  for  a  year  after  his  death  the  whole  super- 
intendence of  it  devolved  on  himself,  and  during  a  portion  of  the 
time  the  stewardship  also. 


24  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

While  the  Trustees,  in  the  expenditures  which  they  have  made, 
have  of  necessity  confined  themselves  within  the  narrow  limits  of  the 
pecuniary  means  at  their  command,  yet  they  have  constantly 
borne  in  mind  that  probably  the  plan  of  the  Institution  would 
eventually  be  extended  so  far  as  to  meet  the  wants  of  the  large  class 
of  persons  in  the  State  for  whose  benefit  it  is  designed.  They  have 
therefore  endeavored  so  to  order  their  arrangements  that  in  an 
enlargement  of  their  plan,  with  more  liberal  means,  their  present 
expenditures  should  not  in  any  considerable  degree  be  lost.  The 
present  arrangements,  however,  are  considered  in  a  great  degree 
temporary.  The  Trustees,  although  aware  that  they  had  not  the 
means  to  establish  such  an  institution  as  it  is  evident  the  State 
requires,  yet  feel  very  desirous  of  extending  the  benefits  of  such 
a  one  as  it  was  in  their  power  to  erect  as  far  as  possible  and  as  soon 
as  practicable  to  their  fellow  citizens,  and  thus  carry  into  effect  the 
benevolent  designs  of  its  founder. 

They  have  therefore  proceeded  as  far  as  their  limited  means 
would  admit,  and  they  now  respectfully  submit  it  to  your  Honorable 
Body  to  decide  whether  the  advantages  to  be  derived  from  such  an 
institution  shall  be  extended  through  your  enlightened  charity  to  all 
the  citizens  of  the  State  who  require  them,  or  be  confined  to  the 
comparatively  few  whom  it  will  be  practicable  to  accommodate  on 
the  present  limited  plan. 

A  select  committee  of  the  last  Assembly  reported  that  there  were 
upwards  of  three  hundred  insane  persons  in  this  State.  It  is  at  once 
evident  that  the  present  plan  of  the  Institution  is  far,  very  far,  from 
offering  them  relief,  and  yet  it  is  extended  to  the  utmost  limit  of  the 
funds  at  command.  To  accommodate  one-quarter  part  of  this  num- 
ber in  a  proper  manner,  would  require  a  building  which  should  cost 
at  least  $15,000  or  $20,000.  The  Trustees  believe  the  enlightened 
benevolence  of  the  people  of  this  State  would  sanction  any  measures 
which  you  might  adopt  for  the  establishment  of  an  institution  which 
should  be  commensurate  with  the  wants  of  the  State.  While  they 
would  acknowledge  the  charity  of  the  Assembly  in  the  appropriation 
which  they  made  toward  this  object,  yet  they  respectfully  represent 
that  it  by  no  means  meets  the  necessities  of  the  case.  Besides 
the  inadequacy  of  the  amount  to  accomplish  the  object  designed, 
it  furnishes  no  certain  fund,  either  present  or  prospective,  on  which 
the  Trustees  would  be  authorized  to  act,  inasmuch  as  the  appropri- 
ation is  liable  to  be  discontinued  at  any  moment.  Nothing  of 
consequence  could  be  safely  commenced  under  that  act  towards 
the  erection  of  an  extensive  establishment  until  the  expiration  of 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR   1836-  25 

five  years.  The  State  would  thus  be  deprived  of  the  benefits  of  the 
Institution  for  a  considerable  time.  The  Trustees  would  therefore 
respectfully  pray  your  Honorable  Body,  either  to  appropriate  such  a 
sum  as  may  seem  to  be  sufficient  to  accomplish  the  object,  or  so  to 
alter  the  act  of  the  last  session  appropriating  money  to  this  object 
as  to  increase  the  annual  sum  to  five  thousand  dollars,  and  by 
repealing  the  provisos  at  the  end.  This  done,  the  Trustees  would 
immediately  proceed  upon  the  strength  of  the  act,  to  erect  suitable 
buildings  for  the  accommodation  of  a  large  number  of  patients,  bor- 
rowing the  funds  to  be  repaid  annually  in  part  from  the  appro- 
priations of  the  act.  The  citizens  of  the  State  would  then  be 
enabled  to  avail  themselves  of  the  benefit  of  the  Institution  with 
little  delay. 

A  leading  object  in  all  such  charities  at  present  should  be  to 
bring  the  advantages  of  the  Institution  within  the  reach  of  all  classes 
of  society.  It  is  those  of  moderate  means  especially,  forming  the 
largest  proportion  of  insanity  among  us,  who  most  require  to  be 
benefited.  The  rich  are  enabled  of  themselves  to  give  their  unfort- 
unate friends  the  advantages  of  the  best  means  of  relief.  Such  an 
institution  as  the  present  should  ever  therefore  have  sufficient  funds 
to  enable  the  managers  to  offer  its  advantages  at  the  very  lowest 
possible  expense,  that  the  poorest  may  share  the  advantages  with 
their  more  wealthy  fellow  citizens.  In  the  present  case,  even 
were  the  building  sufficiently  extensive  to  accommodate  all  who 
need  its  advantages,  yet  having  no  funds  for  the  support  of  the 
superintendent  and  his  assistants,  the  terms  of  admission  must 
be  proportionately  higher  than  they  otherwise  would  be. 

The  Trustees  have  not  thousfht  it  advisable  to  appeal  directly 
to  the  citizens  of  the  State  for  aid  in  establishing  the  Institution,  for 
the  reason  that  being  calculated  for  the  benefit  of  all  classes  it  is  an 
object  peculiarly  worthy  of  legislative  aid.  The  conviction  of  this  is 
strengthened  by  the  fact  that  many  of  the  neighboring  States  have 
viewed  similar  institutions  in  this  light,  and  by  liberal  appropriations 
have  manifested  that  their  establishment  was  deemed  an  object 
of  high  importance.  The  Legislature  of  New  York  at  its  last  ses- 
sion appropriated,  the  sum  of  sixty  thousand  dollars  for  a  similar 
object.  In  Massachusetts  no  sum  has  been  refused  which  was  shown 
to  be  needed  for  the  hospital  in  that  State.  Maine,  Connecticut  and 
Ohio  have  also  each  made  liberal  appropriations  for  similar  insti- 
tutions. 

The  Trustees  therefore  submit  the  subject  for  consideration, 
in   the   hope  that  some  measures  will  be  taken  to  enable  them  to 


26  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

go   forward   in  the   establishment  of  such  an  institution,   as,   while 

it  shall  do  honor  to  our  benevolence,  shall  extend  its  blessings  to  a 

most  interesting  and  numerous  class  of  our  fellow  citizens,  a  class 

in  which  no  man,  however  talented,    rich,  or  prosperous,  has  any 

security  that  he  shall  not  ere  long  be  numbered. 

All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted, 

Sam'l  Clark,  ^ 

John  Holbrook,      ■  ^ 

-^   r^  ^Trustees. 

E.  Seymour,  f 

John  C.  Holbrook.  J 
October,  1836. 

The    response    to    the    foregoing    report    was    the    following : 

"An  Act  making  an  appropriation  for  the  Vermont  Asylum  for 
the  Insane,  to  wit: 

"  It  is  hereby  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State 
of  Vermont,  that  the  Treasurer  of  this  State  be  directed  to  pay  to 
the  Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane,  the  sum  of  two 
thousand  dollars,  out  of  any  moneys  in  the  Treasury,  not  otherwise 
appropriated." 

"Approved  Nov.  15,  1836." 

As  usually  happens  in  the  beginning  of  all  enterprises,  the  open- 
ing was  delayed  by  the  tardy  working  of  the  mechanics.  The  end 
of  Autumn  had  come  before  the  building  was  ready  for  occupancy, 
but  on  the  30th  of  November  the  Trustees  ventured  upon  the 
adoption  of  the  following  Circular  and  Terms  of  Admission  for 
Patients,  to  be  published  in  the  newspapers,  to  wit: 

THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM  FOR  THE  INSANE 

The  Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane  would 
announce  that  this  Institution  is  now  ready  for  the  reception  of 
patients.  The  building  is  finished  in  a  manner  adapted  to  the 
classification  and  convenience  of  its  inmates.  The  two  wings  are  so 
constructed  as  to  afford  pleasant  and  commodious  rooms,  and  that 
the  sexes  may  be  entirely  separated.  Rooms  are*  prepared  for  the 
sick,  removed  from  all  annoyance,  where  the  immediate  relatives 
and  friends  of  the  patients  can,  if  they  desire,  bestow  their  kind 
attentions  and  sympathy.  Experienced  nurses  and  attendants  are 
procured,  and  none  will  be  retained  except  those  who  are  kind 
and  faithful  to  their  trust.  No  harsh  treatment  will  ever  be  for  a 
moment  allowed.     Several  rooms  are  prepared  in  the  center  building 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1836.  27 

for  those  who  require  additional  accommodations  of  attendants 
and  luxuries,  which  will  be  furnished  according  to  the  desire  of 
friends,  and  the  compensation  to  the  Institution.  For  this  class 
of  patients  superior  accommodations  are  offered.  They  will  be 
received  into  the  immediate  family  of  the  physician,  and  not  only 
be  under  his  constant  care  and  watchfulness,  but  partake  of  all  the 
enjoyments  of  social  life.  Arrangements  are  also  made  for  the 
reception  and  accommodation  of  persons,  who,  though  not  insane, 
are  afflicted  with  nervous  diseases,  requiring  medical  treatment. 
Pleasant  and  well  furnished  rooms,  and  good  board  in  the  family 
of  the  physician  will  be  afforded  ;  and  from  his  experience  and 
study  he  will  be  enabled  to  adopt  a  course  of  treatment  more  likely 
to  be  successful  than  that  of  ordinary  physicians  who  have  not  made 
such  diseases  their  peculiar  study.  Due  provision  has  been  made 
for  the  exercise,  amusement  and  employment  of  the  patients.  Con- 
nected with  the  Asylum  is  a  farm  of  nearly  fifty  acres,  in  which 
the  patients  will  be  employed  in  gardening  and  farming,  in  such 
a  degree  as  shall  be  conducive  to  their  health.  Such  employments 
are  now  admitted  to  be  among  the  most  important  and  successful 
means  of  restoration,  and  in  this  respect  this  Institution  has  a  decided 
advantage  over  any  other  in  this  country.  Battle-door,  chess, 
draughts  and  the  like  amusements  will  be  afforded.  The  females 
will  be  employed  in  knitting,  needlework,  painting,  etc.  Carriages 
will  be  provided  for  the  daily  riding  of  the  patients  in  suitable 
weather,  and  they  will  also  take  their  daily  walks  with  nurses  and 
attendants.  A  small  and  select  library,  the  newspapers  of  the  day, 
and  several  periodicals,  will  be  furnished  for  the  purpose. 

The  situation  of  the  xAsylum  is  healthful  and  delightful.  It 
has  the  appearance  of  a  cheerful  country  residence,  and  every  re- 
semblance to  a  place  of  confinement  has  been  carefully  avoided. 
Immediately  in  front  of  the  Institution  is  presented  a  landscape 
of  a  rich  and  cultivated  meadow,  extending  in  the  distance  into 
picturesque  and  romantic  •  scenery,  so  well  adapted  to  arrest  and 
remove  the  morbid  fancies  which  enslave  the  minds  of  the  insane. 
The  view  is  also  enlivened  by  the  passing  and  repassing  of  carriages 
and  travellers  on  two  large  thoroughfares  in  front  of  the  Institution. 
Though  retired,  it  is  yet  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  the  village,  and 
the  grounds  about  the  establishment  are  tastefully  laid  out  in  beau- 
tiful walks,  and  ornamented  with  many  rare  and  valuable  trees, 
shrubs  and  plants,  all  of  which  conspire  to  make  the  abode  of  its 
inmates  at  once  pleasant  and  cheerful. 

The  whole  will  be  under  the  charge  of  Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  M.  I)., 
who  for  the   last    several  years  has  been  connected  with  the  well 


28  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

known  Retreat  for  the  Insane  at  Hartford,  Connecticut.  From  his 
experience  under  Dr.  Todd,  and  his  success  and  devotedness  to  this 
branch  of  his  profession,  the  Trustees  are  confident  in  the  beHef,  that 
all  that  kind,  assiduous  and  skilful  treatment  can  contribute  towards 
the  restoration  of  reason,  will,  with  the  blessing  of  God,  be  accom- 
plished at  this  Asylum. 

TERMS  OF  ADMISSION. 

For  convenient  accommodations  in  the  wings.  Three  Dollars  per 
week. 

Those  who  require  a  room  in  the  center  building  and  those 
laboring  under  nervous  diseases,  will  be  received  at  reasonable 
prices,  according  to  accommodations  required. 

[In  consideration  of  the  assistance  rendered  to  the  Institution  by 
the  State,  and  from  a  desire  to  extend  its  advantages  to  all  classes* 
of  the  community,  the  Trustees  have  determined  to  receive  indigent 
patients  at  an  extremely  low  rate,  less  than  they  ca?i  be  maintaiiied 
properly  elsewhere ?\^ 

Indigent  patients  in  this  State  whose  disease  is  not  of  more  than 
three  months'  standing,  Two  Dollars  per  week,  provided  that  a 
certificate  is  lodged  with  one  of  the  Trustees  signed  by  a  majority  of 
the  selectmen  where  the  patient  resides,  stating  that  they  are  of  the 
opinion  that  said  patient  or  his  or  her  parents,  or  husband  (as  the 
case  may  be)  does  not  possess  property  to  the  amount  of  one 
hundred  dollars.  No  patient,  however,  shall  remain  in  the  Institu- 
tion upon  the  said  terms  over  six  months,  as  that  term  will  generally 
suffice  to  determine  whether  the  case  is  probably  curable  or  not. 

No  patient  will  be  received  for  a  less  term  than  three  months,  and 
payment  for  that  term  will  be  required  in  advance.  If  the  patient 
shall  recover  before  the  expiration  of  that  term,  the  pay  for  the 
unexpired  time  will  be  refunded.  If  the  patient  remain  longer  than 
three  m.onths,  the  subsequent  payments  will  not  be  required  in 
advance,  but  only  for  the  time  the  patient  remains. 

N.  B.  //  should  be  borne  i7t  mind  that  in  the  first  three  nioiitJis  of 
insanity^  the  chances  of  recovery  by  proper  treatment  are  vastly  greater 
than  at  any  subsequent  period.  Insane  persons  should  therefore  on 
the  first  appearance  of  the  disease,  be  placed  under  curative  treat- 
ment. 

Application  for  the  admission  of  patients  may  be  made  by  lettei 

or  otherwise  to  Dr.  Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  or  either  of  the  Trustees. 

Sam'l  Clark,  ] 

tohn  holbrook,        |  ,,, 

i.  ,  o  M  rustees. 

Epaphro  Seymour,  f 

John  C.Holbrook,  J 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1836.  29 

On  the  12th  day  of  December  following,  the  first  patient  was 
received,  and  on  the  i6th  of  the  same  month  the  second  was 
admitted. 

Thus  was  the  institution  launched  upon  its  mission.  It  will 
be  seen  by  the  foregoing  opening  announcement  that  it  was  the 
evident  intent  of  the  Trustees  from  the  beginning,  that  the  citizens 
of  the  State  in  which  the  Asylum  had  been  located  should  especially 
enjoy  its  privileges ;  and  the  terms  were  thus  made  correspondingly 
favorable.  The  cost  of  reconstructing  and  enlarging  the  building 
for  the  reception  of  patients  was  $3,560.65. 


RECORD  OF  1837. 


THE  opening  year  of  the  Institution  was  an  auspicious  one. 
The  Superintendent  entered  upon  the  work  with  aeal  and 
discretion  and  his  sanguine  spirit  was  infused  into  both 
managers  and  helpers.  Every  feature  belonging  to  the  family  system 
was  endorsed  without  modification  in  the  daily  life  of  the  household. 
It  was  essentially  the  same  as  was  nearly  a  half-century  afterwards 
instituted  in  an  appendage  to  the  Asylum,  by  the  establishment  of  a 
Summer  Retreat,  which  will  be  noticed  in  due  chronological  sequence. 
The  story  of  the  first  nine  months  is  embodied  in  the  Report  of  the 
Trustees  and  Superintendent  for  this  year,  and  is  here  entered  ver- 
batim et  literatim^  barring  some  tabular  statistics  which  have  little 
value,  inasmuch  as  they  stand  alone,  not  being  carried  into  subse- 
quent reports. 

The  following  is  this  document: 

To  THE  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of  Vermont  : 

The  undersigned.  Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the 
Insane,  in  compliance  with  the  statute  which  makes  it  their  duty 
to  present  annually  to  the  General  Assembly  a  particular  statement 
of  the  condition  of  the  Asylum,  respectfully  submit  the  following 
as  their  first  annual 

REPORT. 

That  the  Asylum  was  opened  for  the  reception  of  patients  on  the 
1 2th  of  December,  1836.  Great  care  had  been  taken  by  the 
Trustees  so  to  construct  and  arrange  the  building  that  it  should 
be  adapted  to  the  convenience,  classification,  and  safety  of  its 
patients,  and  at  the  same  time  to  remove,  as  much  as  possible, 
every  appearance  of  a  prison,  or  a  place  of  confinement.  So  well 
have  they  succeeded  in  this  respect  that  it  has  the  appearance  of  a 
spacious  country  residence. 

From  the  commencement  an  excellent  farm  of  about  fifty  acres 
was  procured,  as  a  necessary  appendage  to  the  Institution.  We  have 
determined  to  have  a  fair  trial  made  of  employing  the  patients  on  the 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1837.  31 

same,  and  have  the  effects  strictly  noticed.  Here  we  add  our  own, 
to  the  universal  testimony  of  others  on  the  subject,  that  useful  labor 
for  convalescents  and  all  chronig  cases  is  the  best  moral  means  that 
can  be  made  use  of  in  the  treatment  of  insanity.  It  is  difficult  to 
divert  patients  from  cherishing  their  hallucinations,  unless  some 
interesting  employment  is  furnished  for  them.  The  patients  thus 
employed  are  generally  cheerful  and  happy  during  the  day,  and 
sleep  quietly  at  night.  The  exercise  gives  them  an  appetite  for 
food,  and  the  whole  physical  system,  as  well  as  the  mind,  seems  to 
be  invigorated.  It  recalls  to  mind  their  former  employments  and 
pursuits,  rouses  into  action  those  faculties  of  the  mind  which  had  be- 
fore lain  dormant,  and  gives  rest  to  those  who  have  been  unduly 
excited.  As  the  number  of  our  male  patients  has  been  small,  not 
only  the  quiet,  but  also  those  who  were  more  excited,  have  been 
taken  on  the  farm,  and  in  every  case  regular  employment  has  been 
found  to  be  highly  beneficial.  No  patient  has  been  restricted  in  the 
use  of  tools,  either  at  the  wood-yard,  in  the  garden,  or  on  the  farm, 
and  yet  not  the  slightest  accident  whatever  has  happened.  The 
patients  consider  themselves  as  enjoying  the  confidence  of  the  offi- 
cers, and  make  every  effort  that  it  should  not  be  misplaced. 

Notwithstanding  the  embarrassments  that  must  necessarily  attend 
the  commencement  of  every  operation,  enough  has  already  been 
accomplished  to  prove  that  employing  the  patients  on  the  farm  is 
not  only  highly  conducive  to  their  recovery,  but  will  lessen  their  ex- 
penses at  the  Asylum  by  increasing  its  income.  Besides,  the  inhabi- 
tants of  this  State  are  chiefly  agricultural  people,  and  most  of  the 
male  patients  may  be  profitably  employed  on  the  farm,  while  a  much 
less  number  could  be  employed  in  a  shop  to  any  advantage.  Our 
farm  possesses  a  rich  soil,  and  is  easy  of  cultivation.  Many  improve- 
ments are  needed  upon  it,  which  will  afford  much  pleasant  and  use- 
ful labor  for  the  patients. 

That  an  institution  of  this  kind  was  needed  may  be  learned  from 
the  fact  that  within  seven  months  from  the  commencement  of  its 
operations  it  was  filled  with  inmates,  and  that  thirteen  have  already 
been  rejected  for  want  of  room  to  accommodate  them.  Since  the 
opening  of  the  Asylum,  forty-eight  have  been  admitted,  and  fourteen 
discharged,  leaving  thirty-four,  which  now  remain. 

[J^^  When  the  Asylum  was  first  opened,  in  order  to  assist  in  de- 
fraying its  expenses,  a  class  of  nervous  patients  who  were  not  insane 
were  received.  But  so  soon  was  the  Institution  filled  with  those  who 
were  insane,  that  only  three  were  admitted,  and  none  of  these 
remained  after  the  last  of  May.     These,  of  course,  were  not  included 


32  ANNALS  OP^  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

in    the    number    of   those    who    were    admitted    and    discharged   as 
before  mentioned.* 

In  regard  to  the  number  of  cures,  justice  to  the  Superintendent 
requires  us  to  say,  that  but  a  small  proportion  of  them  have  had  an 
adequate  time  of  trial.  It  is  but  nine  months  and  a  half  since  the 
Asylum  was  first  opened,  and  during  the  first  six  months  all,  with  the 
exception  of  four,  were  old  cases.  According  to  the  annals  of  all 
similar  institutions,  those  cases  where  the  disease  was  of  so  long 
continuance  required  a  proportional  length  of  time  for  their  restora- 
tion; and  we  are  unable  to  find  among  them  a  single  instance  in 
which  many  of  these  chronic  cases  have  been  restored.  Nothwith- 
standing  the  forlorn  appearance  of  many  of  these  cases,  we  are  grati- 
fied to  learn  that  several  have  been  already  restored,  and  others  are 
regularly  convalescing.  It  is  no  less  a  subject  of  congratulation  that 
those  whose  disease  had  become  incurable  have  been  greatly  bene- 
fited at  the  Asylum.  Several  who  had  been  caged  and  shut  out, 
not  only  from  the  society  of  their  fellow-men,  but  also  from  the  light 
of  Heaven,  and  deprived  of  the  pure  air  we  breathe,  have  become 
quiet  and  peaceable  inmates,  mingle  in  society  with  the  rest,  and  par- 
take of  the  exercises  and  amusements  and  pastimes  of  the  Institution. 

From  the  history  of  all  similar  institutions,  we  learn  that  the  pro- 
portion of  old  cases  that  were  admitted  at  the  commencement  of 
their  operations,  has  always  been  great.  From  the  opening  of  this 
Institution  to  the  ist  of  July  twenty-five  out  of  twenty-nine  cases 
were  of  this  description.  The  friends  of  these  patients,  actuated  by 
a  generous  humanity,  were  ready  to  make  use  of  means,  however 
ineffectual  they  might  prove,  of  which  they  had  heretofore  been  des- 
titute. The  gratification  of  those  who  may  be  permitted  to  see  their 
friends  restored  is  inexpressible,  and  even  those  who  fail  of  this  are 
comforted  by  witnessing  their  improved  condition,  and  by  the  grate- 
ful reflection  of  having  done  their  duty.  Several  who  were  obliged 
to  be  confined,  and  were  wild  and  ferocious  in  their  conduct  before 
admission,  have  now  not  only  become  quiet,  but  partake  also  of 
many  of  the  comforts  and  pleasures  of  life. 

The  grand  system  of  moral  treatment  as  pursued  in  this  Institu- 
tion is  kind  treatment,  useful  employment,  and  wholesome  discipline. 
When  a  patient  enters  the  Asylum  [however  violent  and  distrustful 
he  may  formerly  have  been]  he  soon  perceives  that  the  principles  of 
kindness  pervade  every  regulation  of  the  Institution.     By  experiencing 

*It  may  here  be  stated,  that  none  of  that  class  of  nervous  c.ises  bordering  upon 
insanity  but  not  .strictly  insane,  admitted  in  subsequent  years,  have  ever  been  in- 
cluded in  the  published  admissipns  and  discharges. 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEAR    1837.  S3 

constant  proof  of  the  parental  kindness  and  regard  of  the  Superin- 
tendent, he  soon  cherishes  for  him  the  sentiments  of  friendship  and 
esteem,  and  cheerfully  confides  in  the  plan  adopted  for  his  restora- 
tion. By  continual  employment,  his  former  associations  and  habits 
are  awakened  and  cherished,  and  his  mind  and  body  become  invigo- 
rated. From  the  well-regulated  discipline  which  everywhere  prevails 
in  the  Institution,  and  which  is  adapted  to  the  welfare  of  his  little 
community,  he  finds  that  his  own  rights  are  regarded  and  protected. 
In  this  manner  the  violence  of  the  disease  is  diminished,  and  his 
mind  gradually  becomes  divested  of  its  hallucinations,  and  is  finally 
restored  to  its  natural  healthy  state.  It  is  generally  understood  that 
there  are  few  chances  for  the  recovery  of  the  insane  so  long  as  the 
patient  remains  amidst  those  objects  and  scenes  which  originated  and 
continually  operate  to  aggravate  his  disorder,  while  of  those  who  are 
placed  at  a  well-regulated  Asylum  on  the  first  approach  of  this  dis- 
ease, as  great  a  proportion  are  restored  as  of  any  acute  physical  dis- 
order in  which  the  symptoms  are  equally  violent.  At  no  other  place 
can  an  insane  person  be  made  equally  comfortable.  Here  he  will 
quietly  acquiesce  in  the  discipline  of  the  Asylum,  notwithstanding  his 
impetuosity  and  violence  at  home.  He  is  now  removed  from  every 
cause  which  excited  and  exasperated  his  disorder,  and  enjoys  that 
liberty  in  which  he  could  not  be  indulged  in  any  other  place.  Here, 
also,  he  is  furnished  with  wholesome  and  nutritious  food,  his  person 
is  kept  clean  and  neat,  and  he  is  protected  from  every  exposure. 
And  last  but  not  least,  his  friends  are  relieved  from  an  insupportable 
weight  of  care  and  anxiety,  knowing  that  he  here  enjoys  every  com- 
fort and  convenience  of  which  his  case  will  admit. 

The  Trustees  regret  that  they  are  unable  at  the  present  time  to 
furnish  a  precise  statement  of  the  financial  condition  of  the  Institution. 
E.  Seymour,  Esq.,  the  treasurer,  is  unexpectedly  and  unavoidably 
absent  from  the  State,  and  will  not  return  in  season  to  present  his 
report.  However,  the  expenditures  for  the  farm,  and  for  erecting 
and  furnishing  the  buildings,  about  balance  the  receipts.  Whether 
the  expenditures  are  greater  or  less  than  the  receipts,  we  are  unable 
precisely  to  say,  but  are  fully  of  the  opinion  that  there  can  be  but 
little  difference.  The  current  expenses  of  the  Institution  are  kept . 
by  the  Superintendent,  and  are  as  follows: 

The  whole  amount  of  expenditures  up  to  Sept.  ist, 

inclusive,  is $3,484,71 

[This  sum  includes  the  cost  of  a  large  quantity  of  fuel,  provisions, 
etc.,  for  the  present  season.] 


34  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

The  amount  actually  received  for  board  of  patients, 

etc.,  to  the  same  time  is $1,866.73 

Amount  of  same  not  received  is 863.56 


Total, $2,730,29 

It  should  not  be  forgotten  that  in  addition  to  many  expenses  which 
are  peculiar  to  the  commencement  of  every  similar  institution,  the 
price  of  almost  every  article  of  consumption  and  supplies  has  been 
unusually  high  during  the  past  year,  and  of  course  has  greatly 
increased  the  amount  of  expenditures. 

In  consideration  of  the  funds  granted  by  the  State,  the  Trustees 
have  received  all  the  indigent  insane  of  this  State  that  have  been 
offered,  whose  insanity  was  not  of  more  than  three  months'  standing, 
at  the  low  rate  of  two  dollars  per  week.  Several  other  indigent 
patients  of  this  State,  whose  disease  was  of  much  longer  duration, 
have  been  received  below  the  ordinary  price  of  three  dollars.  The 
Trustees  did  not  think  it  just  to  receive  all  the  indigent  old  cases  at 
two  dollars  per  week  until  another  building  was  erected;  for  in  that 
case  the  Institution  would  soon  be  filled  with  incurables,  to  the 
exclusion  of  those  who  may  be  restored  to  reason  and  usefulness. 
Before  this  Institution  was  established,  persons  possessing  somewhat 
less  than  an  average  of  property  could  not,  according  to  the 
commonly  received  notions  of  ability  to  bear  expense,  afford  to  send 
the  insane  members  of  their  families  to  those  institutions  at  which 
the  wealthy  could  receive  the  benefit.  And  we  wish  to  be  distinctly 
understood,  that  whatever  funds  the  Legislature  may  grant  for 
the  use  of  this  Institution,  will  be  directly  applied  for  the  benefit 
of  the  less  wealthy  portion  of  the  community.  We  trust  the  Legis- 
lature will  not  fail  to  make  all  necessary  provision  for  that  portion 
of  our  population,  who,  without  any  fault  or  offence  of  their  own, 
suffer  the  greatest  calamity  to  which  human  nature  is  liable,  and  are 
deprived  of  the  means  of  procuring  relief. 

While  it  is  a  subject  of  congratulation  to  the  Trustees,  that 
the  present  building  was  so  soon  filled  with  inmates,  it  is  also  a  sub- 
ject of  deep  regret  that  they  are  unable  to  receive  all  who  apply  for 
admission.  No  less  than  thirteen  applications  have  already  been  re- 
jected. The  Trustees  would  therefore  most  respectfully  solicit  of 
the  Legislature  that  pecuniary  aid  which  would  enable  them  to  erect 
another  suitable  building,  which  shall  be  sufficient  for  the  wants  of 
the  State.  In  that  case,  this  Asylum  would  possess  advantages 
superior  in  some  respects  to  any  similar  institution  in  our  country. 
The  present  building  would  then  be  occupied  by  the  convalescents, 
and  also  the  quiet  and  neat  class  of  patients,  who  would  otherwise 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1837.  35 

be  likely  to  suffer  from  the  noise  and  confusion  of  the  wilder 
patients  ;  while  the  new  building  would  furnish  accommodations  for 
all  other  cases.  By  erecting  the  proposed  building,  a  greater  num- 
ber of  patients  would  be  received,  and  there  would  consequently 
be  a  greater  annual  income,  without  a  corresponding  increase  of  the 
expenditures,  as  the  same  officers  would  attend  to  all.  This  arrange- 
ment would  not  only  allow  of  a  more  complete  classification,  but 
would  present  a  strong  inducement  to  every  patient  to  exercise  that 
self-control  which  would  allow  of  his  being  placed  among  the  most 
orderly  class,  and  could  not  fail  to  produce  an  effect  highly  con- 
ducive to  his  recovery. 

It  is  most  respectfully  suggested  to  the  consideration  of  the 
Legislature,  whether  it  is  not  consonant  with  the  views  of  a  soUnd 
policy,  and  of  strict  and  just  economy,  to  make  provision  for  the 
recovery  of  our  insane  population.  If  the  present  insane  of  this 
State  had  received  the  benefits  of  a  well-regulated  asylum,  within 
six  months  from  their  attack,  at  least  three-fourths  of  them  would 
probably  have  been  restored  to  reason  and  usefulness,  but  are 
now  a  burden  to  their  friends  and  community.  Of  all  the  plans 
devised  by  a  generous  and  enlightened  philanthropy  for  lessening 
the  misery  of  the  unfortunate,  no  one,  we  are  bold  to  say,  in  propor- 
tion to  the  extent  of  its  means  and  the  range  of  its  operations, 
has  added  more  to  the  stock  of  public  happiness  or  subtracted  more 
from  the  mighty  mass  of  human  misery,  than  institutions  of  this 
character.  Is  it  not  our  duty  as  Christians,  and  as  men,  to  endeavor 
to  relieve  the  distressed;  and  what  portion  of  the  community  has 
equal  claims  upon  our  sympathy  and  regard  ?  Can  there  be  an 
object  which  better  deserves  the  aid  of  a  humane  and  enlightened 
government,  than  that  which  endeavors  to  restore  a  deranged  intel- 
lect to  its  former  soundness  and  vigor,  and  thus  release  the  victims 
of  madness  and  despair  from  the  greatest  of  human  afflictions? 
Surely,  "  The  blessings  of  many  that  are  ready  to  perish "  will  fall 
upon  all  those  who  aid  this  benevolent  enterprise. 

The  remarks  of  the  Superintendent  are  appended  to  this  report, 
and  will  be  eagerly  read  by  those  who  take  an  interest  in  this  afflicted 
portion  of  the  community;  and  the  Trustees  cannot  conclude  their 
report  without  expressing  their  entire  confidence  in  his  ability 
and  skill,  and  their  firm  belief  that  the  unexpected  success  is  chiefly 
attributable  to  his  untiring  zeal,  and  judicious  treatment  of  those 
committed  to  his  care.  Samuel  Clark, 

John  Holbrook, 
Epaphro' Seymour, 
Brattleboro,  October  i6th,  1837.  John  C.  Holbrook. 


S6  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

SUPERINTENDENT'S  REPORT. 

SUMMARY. 

Whole  number  of  patients  admitted  from  the  opening 
of  the  Asylum  to  September  30th,  1837  : 

Males, 20 

Females,        .         ...         .         28  48 

Whole  number  discharged, 13 

Died,  .         .         .         .         .  I  14 

Whole  number  remaining, 

Males, 13 

Females, 21  34 

Recent  cases  of  less  than  six  months'  duration,  14 

Old*  cases  of  more  than  six  months'  duration,  34  48 

A  reference  to  the  table  will  show  that  a  large  proportion  of  old 
and  incurable  cases  have  been  admitted  into  the  Asylum.  This 
is  the  usual  consequence  with  all  similar  institutions  in  the  com- 
mencement, unless  situated  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  others  which 
have  been  longer  established.  There  having  been  heretofore  no  insti- 
tution of  sufficient  proximity,  these  old  cases  have  accumulated 
in  private  families,  and  as  soon  as  the  Asylum  was  opened  for  their 
relief,  their  friends  wished  to  discharge  their  whole  duty  by  making 
this  last  attempt  for  their  restoration.  The  friends  of  some,  how- 
ever, being  conscious  of  the  hopelessness  of  their  state,  have  placed 
them  here  from  motives  of  benevolence  and  humanity,  being 
well  aware  that  their  condition  would  be  made  far  more  comfortable 
than  in  their  private  families,  besides  relieving  themselves  of 
much  anxiety  and  solicitude  for  their  protection  and  care. 

The  importance  of  placing  the  insane,  on  the  first  approach 
of  their  disease,  at  a  proper  asylum,  cannot  be  too  forcibly  urged 
upon  public  attention.  No  time  should  be  lost  in  placing  them  upon 
a  course  calculated  to  restore  them  to  the  duties  and  enjoyments  of 
life.  The  probability  of  their  restoration  is  in  an  inverse  ratio  to 
the  duration  of  the  disease.  Besides,  the  length  of  time  necessary  to 
restore  the  old  cases  is  proportionally  longer  than  for  those  which 
are  recent,  and  consequently  the  expenses  will  be  much  greater,  so 
that  a  regard  to  strict  economy,  as  well  as  a  prospect  of  cure, 
requires  that  the  patient  should  be  placed  early  in  the  disease 
at  a  proper  asylum.  It  is  impossible  to  fix  upon  any  precise  time 
when  all  cases  cease  to  be  recent  and  assume  the  chronic  form, 
as  some  cases  run  their  course  in  a  shorter  time  and  pass  into 
the  chronic  state,  than  others.  I  have  in  this  report  considered  all 
those  cases  as  recent,    where   the    disease   has  not  been   of   more 


RECORD  OF    THE  YEAR  1837.  37 

than  six  months'  duration;  and  all  those  chronic  which  have  exceeded 
that  time. 

I  wish  not  to  be  understood  as  endeavoring  to  discourage  the 
friends  of  those  patients,  whose  disease  has  been  of  long  standing, 
from  making  an  attempt  at  their  restoration.  It  should  be  remem- 
bered that  "While  there  is  life,  there  is  hope,"  and  we  should  not 
despair  or  relax  in  our  efforts  to  remove  this  afflictive  malady, 
although  they  are  not  immediately  crowned  with  success.  An 
old  case  is  not  necessarily  incurable,  nor  should  the  case  be  given 
over  as  desperate,  until  every  proper  remedy  has  been  judiciously 
applied.  There  are  instances  where  cures  have  been  performed 
under  the  most  discouraging  circumstances;  and  when  a  cure  has 
not  been  effected,  the  patient  has  been  restored  to  a  very  comfort- 
able state.  My  former  experience  has  been  abundantly  confirmed, 
that  there  are  very  few  cases,  however  wretched  and  violent,  that 
may  not  be  greatly  ameliorated  by  judicious  treatment.  All  that 
J  wish  to  urge  is  the  prompt  removal  of  the  patients  from  the  scenes 
and  persons  associated  with  their  hallucinations,  and  the  great 
comparative  advantage  of  placing  them  in  an  asylum  in  an  early 
stage  of  the  disease. 

This  Institution  has  not  been  in  operation  a  sufficient  length 
of  time  to  ascertain  what  will  be  its  success  in  recoveries.  It  is 
little  more  than  nine  months  since  it  was  first  opened.  The  average 
time  of  the  residence  of  the  patients  in  the  Asylum  has  been  short. 
We  have,  notwithstanding,  the  cheering  fact  that  eleven  have  been 
restored. 

It  is  generally  known  that  chronic  diseases  of  the  body  require 
the  judicious  application  of  means  for  a  considerable  length  of  time, 
even  when  the  course  is  successful ;  how  much  more  so  is  it  neces- 
sary in  chronic  cases  of  insanity,  which  depend  on  physical  disease  ? 
— for  in  these  cases  the  disease  is  to  be  removed,  and  former  associa- 
tions and  habits  are  to  be  awakened  and  restored.  One  of  the 
greatest  trials  of  the  physician  of  *a  lunatic  asylum  is  the  premature 
removal  of  patients.  I  will  mention  one  instance  which  recently 
occurred  at  this  Institution,  A  young  man  was  brought  here  when 
disease  had  been  making  insidious  but  gradual  progress  for  more 
than  a  year,  and  at  the  end  of  three  months  was  removed  by  his 
friends.  Although  he  appeared  to  be  regularly  convalescing,  I  was 
grieved  to  see  him  thus  prematurely  taken  away,  to  continue  insane 
perhaps  for  life,  when  the  residence  of  a  few  months,  and  perhaps 
only  a  few  weeks  longer,  would  have  been  sufficient  for  his  recovery. 
I  make  not  these  remarks  because  I  think  we  have  more  trials  of 


38  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

this  kind  than  occur  at  other  institutions,  but  to  show  that  old  cases 
generally  require  longer  time  for  restoration.  There  are  frequently 
cases'which  do  not  appear  to  improve  in  three  months,  which  at  the 
end  of  six  or  twelve  months  entirely  recover. 

No  one  at  the  present  time,  I  believe,  who  is  acquainted  with  the 
ministrations  of  a  lunatic  asylum,  questions  the  importance  of  useful 
labor  in  restoring  to  reason  the  minds  of  the  insane.  Having  been 
connected  with  an  institution  of  this  kind  for  nearly  ten  years, 
I  have  invariably  found  that  for  a  large  majority  of  male  patients 
exercise  in  the  open  air  was  far  preferable  to  that  which  was  taken 
within  doors.  The  accustomed  employment  of  most  men  is  in 
the  open  air,  and  when  they  are  confined  within  doors,  their  health 
and  reason  are  soon  affected.  Females  are  also  benefited  by  exer- 
cise in  the  open  air,  as  in  riding,  walking,  etc.;  but  as  their  former 
employment  has  been  so  much  within  doors  it  is  much  less  indispen- 
sable for  them  than  for  men.  Useful  labor  whether  within  or 
without  doors  is  most  desirable  as  a  means  of  restoration  for  curable 
patients,  and  is  perhaps  no  less  so  to  promote  the  happiness  of  those 
for  whom  all  we  can  do  is  to  make  them  as  comfortable  as  their  con- 
dition will  admit.  With  the  exception  of  those  cases  where  the  mind 
is  unduly  excited,  few  things  can  be  much  worse  for  the  insane  than 
inactivity  of  body  and  mind.  Even  the  sane  mind,  when  suffered  to 
remain  in  continued  inaction,  loses  much  of  its  vigor  and  energy, 
soon  begins  to  languish,  and  often  ends  in  a  state  of  torpitude.  So 
the  insane,  when  their  minds  are  suffered  to  remain  in  inaction  sink 
into  a  state  of  brutish  indifference.  Sometimes  when  the  mind 
ceases  to  employ  itself  on  things  without,  it  soon  begins  to  prey  upon 
itself.  The  pleasures  and  comforts  which  it  had  proposed  to  take 
from  this  incorrectly  termed  state  of  rest,  are  never  realized. 
The  idler  is  frequently  at  a  loss  how  to  occupy  his  vacant  hours 
because  weary  of  himself  and  all  things  about  him,  and  finally  com- 
plains of  his  wretched  existence.  And  too  frequently  has  his  internal 
misery  so  oppressed  him,  that  in  a  dark  moment  of  despair  he 
has  deprived  himself  of  that  life  which  he  considered  as  intolerable. 
In  the  same  manner,  when  the  insane  are  confined  and  shut  up  from 
any  employment  they  become  fretful  and  irritable,  tear  their  clothes, 
become  violent  and  filthy,  and  hasten  to  an  incurable  state.  But 
give  the  inmates  of  a  lunatic  asylum  some  useful  employment,  they 
will  then  be  quiet  and  cheerful  through  the  day,  and  sleep  well 
at  night.  Their  former  habits  and  associations  will  be  awakened, 
the  mind  and  body  will  be  invigorated,  and  reason  will  often  be 
restored. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1837.  39 

It  has  been  a  great  object  with  those  who  have  had  charge 
of  this  Institution,  that  as  many  of  the  patients  as  were  in  a  proper 
condition  should  be  regularly  engaged  in  some  useful  employment 
in  the  open  air.  We  have  employed  our  males  by  working  in  the 
garden  and  on  the  farm,  and  also  by  walking,  riding,  reading,  and 
various  amusements.  The  principal  exercise  of  the  females  in 
the  open  air  has  been  by  riding,  walking,  gathering  flowers,  and  the 
like.  They  have  also  been  occupied  in  various  kinds  of  needle 
work,  knitting,  reading,  and  amusements  within  doors. 

From  the  opening  of  the  Asylum  we  have  introduced  religious 
worship  among  our  patients.  Our  family  worship,  in  which  all  quiet 
patients  are  allowed  to  partake,  consists  in  reading  daily,  after  tea,  a 
portion  of  the  Scriptures,  singing  a  hymn,  and  a  prayer.  On  the 
Sabbath,  in  addition  to  the  above,  a  short  sermon  is  read.  The 
effect  of  these  exercises  on  the  patients  has  been  highly  salutary, 
and  has  shown  that  they  are  no  less  a  means  of  cure  than  gratifica- 
tion to  them.  At  these  seasons  they  are  very  quiet  and 
attentive,  and  several  have  begun  to  exercise  that  self-control  which 
has  resulted  in  their  restoration.  The  monotonous  routine  of  daily 
life  is  hereby  interrupted,  and  they  are  led  to  the  recollection  of 
former  and  happier  days  on  which  their  minds  delight  to  dwell, 
and  they  confidently  look  forward  to  the  time  when  they  shall  again 
be  restored  to  their  friends  and  society.  Here,  also,  the  despondent 
forgets  for  a  time  his  cares  and  sorrows,  and  experiences  the  con- 
soling and  soothing  effects  of  religious  worship.  He  is  comforted 
and  sustained  by  the  reflection  that  there  is  a  Friend,  who,  while  on 
earth,  was  "touched  with  a  sense  of  human  infirmity,"  and  is  able 
ever  to  relieve  the  afliicted  and  heavy  laden.  They  perceive  that 
they  are  united  with,  and  are  remembered  by  their  fellow-men, 
and  thereby  i)lace  a  greater  confidence  in  those  to  whose  care  they 
are  committed.  Were  it  not  for  our  religious  exercises  on  the  Sab- 
bath, Sunday  would  be  the  most  tedious  day  of  the  week.  As  all 
labor,  exercise,  and  amusements  are  suspended  on  that  day,  if  the 
patients  are  deprived  of  the  privilege  of  uniting  in  religious  worship, 
they  consider  themselves  as  shut  out  from  the  society  of  their  fellow- 
men,  and  are  induced  to  cherish  an  irritable  and  misanthropic  dis- 
position, which  only  aggravates  the  disease.  Those  that  are  in  a 
suitable  condition  attend  church  on  the  Sabbath. 

It  is  a  source  of  much  gratification  to  the  physician,  that  we  are 
favored  with  such  an  abundance  of  pure  water,  salubrious  air, 
and  cheerful  scenery  at  the  Asylum.  The  patients  have  been  re- 
markably   healthy  during   the  past  year,  and    only   one  death  has 


40  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

occurred.  This  was  one  of  the  old  cases,  where  the  physical  system 
had  been  much  impaired,  and  being  violently  attacked  with  an  acute 
disorder,  the  powers  of  life  were  too  nearly  exhausted  to  withstand 
the  disease.  Considering  that  insanity  is  owing  to  a  disorder  of  the 
physical  system,  and  also  considering  the  impaired  health  of  many 
of  our  patients  when  they  are  admitted,  we  cannot  but  rejoice 
in  the  healthiness  of  our  situation,  and  the  salutary  system  of  our 
regulations. 

The  discipline  of  this  Asylum  is  truly  parental.  As  soon  as  the 
patients  are  in  a  proper  conditioi;i,  they  eat  at  our  table,  are  received 
into  our  parlor,  join  with  us  in  our  family  worship,  go  with  us  to 
church, — in  a  word  are  members  of  our  family.  The  convalescent 
and  orderly  class  of  patients,  take  their  meals  regularly  with  the 
family  in  the  central  part  of  the  building;  which  operates  as  a 
powerful  motive  to  exercise  that  self-control,  without  which  they 
cannot  obtain  what  they  consider  a  great  privilege.  The  food,  how- 
ever, is  precisely  alike  throughout  the  Institution,  except  in  those 
cases  where  the  diet  is  prescribed  by  the  physician. 

Notwithstanding  several  attendants  have  been  employed  who 
were  at  first  wholly  unacquainted  with  their  duties,  no  serious 
accident  whatever  has  happened  to  any  person  (patient  or  other- 
wise) at  the  Asylum.  The  patients  have  quietly  acquiesced  in  the 
discipline  of  the  Institution,  and  generally  become  so  orderly  and 
inoffensive  after  a  few  days'  residence,  as  to  require  but  little 
constraint.  The  impartial  and  well  regulated  discipline  of  a  lunatic 
asylum  does  not  irritate  them,  nor  diminish  their  confidence  in  those 
under  whose  care  they  are  placed  ;  on  the  contrary,  they  regard 
it  with  a  loyal  feeling,  and  consider  it  necessary  to  their  comfort, 
and  welfare.  We  have  never  provided,  much  less  used,  chains  or 
strait-jackets  in  this  Institution. 

The  building  as  now  prepared  is  well  adapted  for  the  number 
it  accommodates.  But  until  another  building  is  erected,  so  urgent 
are  the  applications  for  admission,  that  hereafter  it  will  probably  be 
crowded.  We  humbly  trust  that  an  Institution  so  humane  and 
philanthropic  in  its  character,  so  beneficent  in  its  operations,  and 
reflecting  so  much  credit  upon  the  munificence  of  the  Legislature, 
will  receive  that  pecuniary  aid  which  will  enable  it  to  extend  its 
usefulness  to  the  wants  of  the  State.  When  another  building  shall 
be  completed,  the  present  one  will  be  a  very  desirable  retreat  for 
patients  so  soon  as  they  emerge  from  the  thick  cloud  which 
envelopes  their  minds.  Having  thus  propitiously  begun,  we  trust 
that  public  expectation  is  satisfied.       May  we  not  hope  that  the  time 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1837.  41 

is  not  far  distant,  when  this  Asylum  will  take  no  humble  rank  among 
the  distinguished  charities,  of  our  country 

William  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent. 

Brattleboro,  Sept.  30,  1S37. 

Upon  the  adoption  of  the  foregoing  report  in  October  of  this 
year,  Samuel  Clark  was  authorized  and  requested  to  proceed  to 
Montpelier,  and  make  application  to  the  Legislature  (then  in  session) 
for  further  pecuniary  aid  in  the  erection  of  an  additional  building, 
the  need  of  which  had  been  fully  set  forth  in  this  report. 

The  following  was  the  result: 

"An  Act  Concerning  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane. 

"  It  is  hereby  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State 
of  Vermont,  that  the  Treasurer  of  this  State  is  directed  to  pay  the 
Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane,  the  sum  of  Four 
Thousand  Dollars,  out  of  any  moneys  in  the  Treasury  not  otherwise 
appropriated,  for  the  purpose  of  erecting  another  building  for  the 
Asylum,  payable  on  the  first  day  of  April  next.  Provided,  in  future 
admissions  to  the  benefits  of  said  Asylum,  a  preference  shall  be  given 
to  resident  citizens  of  this  State. 

"Approved  Nov.  i,  1837." 

Upon  the  passage  of  the  foregoing  Act,  the  Trustees  held  a 
meeting  at  the  Asylum  to  consult  about  the  erection  of  a  new  build- 
ing, and  without  coming  to  any  conclusion  adjourned  to  meet  at  the 
Bank,  December  15th  following. 

At  this  meeting  they  received  various  proposals  for  furnishing 
materials,  and  Voted,,  "  That  John  Holbrook  be  requested  to  make 
estimates  of  the  cost  of  a  building,"  after  which  they  adjourned  to 
meet  again  on  the  23d  of  the  month. 

At  this  date  the  Trustees  directed  the  Treasurer  to  credit  and 
settle  the  accounts  of  the  Superintendent  for  the  past  year,  and 
Voted,  with  the  concurrence  of  Dr.  Rockwell.  "  That  the  same  arrange- 
ment with  him  for  the  superintendence  of  the  Asylum,  which  was 
made  the  past  year,  be  continued  another  year. 

"After  fully  examining  the  state  of  the  funds  of  the  Institution, 
and  the  plans  and  estimates  of  a  new  building  submitted  to  the 
Trustees,  Voted,  That  immediate  measures  be  taken  to  erect  a  new 
building  the  coming  season  according  to  a  general  plan  submitted  by 
Dr.  Rockwell,  with  such  alterations  and  amendments  as  may  seem  to 
be  proper  hereafter. 

"The  general  plan  as  follows:  xA  center  building  fifty  feet 
wide,  forty  feet  from  front  to  rear,  three  stories  high  from  basement, 


42  ANNALS   OF   THE   VERMONT   ASYLUM. 

with  two  wings  thirty-six  feet  wide,  by  about  sixty-two  feet  long, 
containing  twenty-eight  rooms  in  each  story,  eight  by  ten  feet,  and  a 
hall  twelve  feet  wide.  The  wings  two  stories  above  the  basement. 
The  materials  to  be  brick,  except  the  basement,  which  is  to  be 
stone." 

This  plan  was  essentially  after  the  old  Worcester  Hospital,  at 
that  time  one  of  the  most  recently  built  institutions  in  this  country, 
and  regarded  as  one  of  the  best. 

Correspondence  has  been  preserved  showing  that  Dr.  Woodward 
was  conferred  with  at  this  time,  particularly  in  respect  to  securing  a 
master-builder.  A  letter  from  him  to  Mr.  John  C.  Holbrook,  under 
date  of  25th  of  December,  reads  thus:  "I  received  your  letter  of 
the  23d  inst.  and  hasten  to  reply,  Elias  Carter,  Esq.,  is  the  man  of 
all  others  that  I  would  recommend  to  you  as  suitable  to  superintend 
the  erection  of  your  buildings,  and  the  fitting  up  of  your  hospital.  He 
removed  from  Worcester  the  present  season  and  now  resides  in 
Springfield,  I  believe  in  Chicopee  village,  but  am  not  quite  certain. 
He  is  responsible  and  competent,  and  I  may  add  experienced. 
Capt.  Merchant  Toby  of  this  town  is  another  man  who  assisted  Mr. 
Carter  in  building  this  hospital,  and  is  an  excellent  mechanic  and 
truly  worthy  man.  I  will  see  Capt.  Toby  myself,  and  send  him  your 
letter.  I  shall  be  happy  to  lend  you  any  aid  in  my  power  at  any 
time.  May  I  be  permitted  to  say,  that  I  believe  you  will  always 
be  sorry  that  you  build  two  stories  instead  of  three.  Walls  cost  little 
compared  with  roof  and  foundation.  Our  third  story  is  much  the 
pleasant'est  in  the  house,  quite  the  warmest,  and  quite  the  most 
retired.  You  can  build  the  walls  and  furnish  at  a  future  time,  if  not 
needed  now;  but  I  forbear." 

The  principal  interest  attached  to  this  letter  is  the  gratuitous 
advice  touching  the  plan,  which  is  directly  opposed  to  that  given  by 
Dr.  Julius,  the  German  specialist   (see  page  10.) 

As  a  result  of  the  preceding  inquiry  Capt.  Merchant  Toby  of 
Worcester  next  appears  upon  the  scene,  bearing  the  following  letter 
of  recommendation  from  Dr.  Woodward  to  Trustee  John  C.  Hol- 
brook, under  date  of  December  26th: 

"I  take  pleasure  in  introducing  to  you  Capt.  Merchant  Toby, 
the  master-builder  of  the  Hospital  which  I  superintend,  under 
the  supervision  of  Mr.  Carter,  whose  partner  he  has  since  been. 
Capt.  Toby  is  one  of  our  most  estimable  citizens,  a  man  of  respecta- 
bility of  character,  a  Christian,  and  in  every  respect  worthy  of  your 
confidence. 

"  As  a  mechanic,  he  stands  in  the  first  rank,  and  is  undoubtedly 


RECORD   OF   THE   YEAR    1837.  43 

competent  to  go  forward  and  erect  your  Hospital  without  any  assist- 
ance from  others.  I  have  never  seen  a  man  who  managed  a  gang 
of  workmen  so  ably  as  Capt.  Toby.  For  some  months  after  I  came 
into  this  Hospital  he  was  at  work  with  ten  or  fifteen  journeymen, 
who  were  proverbially  civil  and  attentive  to  business.  I  can  say  in 
conclusion  that  if  I  had  a  building  to  erect  of  any  magnitude,  I 
would  employ  him  sooner  than  any  other  man." 

On  the  28th  of  December  it  is  recorded,  "The  Trustees  met  to 
confer  with  Capt.  Merchant  Toby  of  Worcester,  Mass.,  with  reference 
to  contracting  with  him  to  erect  the  new  building  for  the  Asylum. 
■Gave  him  the  outlines  of  the  plan  determined  on,  and  agreed 
with  him  to  prepare  full  and  accurate  drawings,  plans  and  elevation 
suitable  to  predicate  estimates  upon,  and  to  build  by,  and  to  make 
proposals  for  doing  the  building  at  a  specified  time  by  contract, 
or  for  superintending  the  work, — all  to  be  presented  a  week  or 
two  hence.  He  not  to  be  paid  for  his  plans  if  we  contract  with  him, 
but  if  we  do  not,  he  is  to  be  paid." 
This  closed  the  work  of  this  year. 

Among  the  cases  admitted  in  the  opening  year  were  some  of 
much  interest,  among  whom  is  that  of  a  clerg^^man,  which  I  trans- 
cribe from  the  Case  Book: 

"  Mr.  H.  IS  a  native  of  Connecticut,  and  a  resident  of  B ,  Vt. 

He  had  been  a  preacher  of  the  Congregational  denomination  for 
about  fifteen  years,  and  about  three  years  since  he  became  a  Baptist. 
He  has  a  wife  and  six  children  in  indigent  circumstances.  When  he 
changed  sentiments  he  lost  the  support  of  one  denomination,  and  as 
he  was  for  open  communion,  the  Baptists  withheld  their  support. 
He  became  perplexed  and  distressed  in  his  pecuniary  circumstances, 
and  also  in  his  religious  relations.  He  became  nervous,  and  has 
been  partially  insane."  Such  is  the  original  entry  to  which  is 
appended  the  following  letter  from  a  friend,  of  which  the  patient 
was  himself  the  messenger: 

"The  bearer,  the  Rev.  Mr.  H.,  has  resided  for  a  part  of  the  time 
for  two  years  in  this  town,  and  is  considered  by  all  who  have  the 
most  intimate  acquaintance  with  him,  partially  deranged  and  a  proper 
subject  for  your  Institution.  He  is  perfectly  poor,  and  unable  to 
perform  any  common  manual  labor  from  bodily  debility  and  mental 
derangement.  The  family,  consisting  of  a  sick  wife  and  six  children, 
are  mainly  subsisted  from  the  charities  of  the  neighbors  except  what 
little  they  can  earn.  A  few  individuals  have  made  up  a  small 
sum  to  enable  him  to  reach  your  place,  and  we  hope  enough  to  sup- 
port him  a  few  weeks,  hoping  that  such  medical  aid  and  treatment 


44  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

as  you  are  in  the  habit  of  allowing  to  others,  may  render  him  in  a 
short  time  capable  of  earning  a  living.  Could  he  not  be  with  you, 
and  be  employed  in  some  of  your  factories  or  book-binderies  so  as 
to  earn  his  living  while  he  stays?  I  think  I  have  never  been 
acquainted  with  a  more  wretched  man  than  he  now  is.  I  think 
if  any  man  is  a  worthy  object  ©f  your  charities,  he  is  the  man 
deserving  it.  I  have  no  interest  in  his  case  any  more  than  the  com- 
munity in  general  have.  I  hope  you  will  thoroughly  try  your  best 
in  his  case,  for  I  am  confident  he  is  a  proper  subject.  J.  C." 

The  first  entry  after  jiis  admission  shows  him  to  have  been  greatly 
depressed,  and  incapable  of  directing  his  attention  to  anything  con- 
tinuously, and  disturbed  in  his  sleep  by  distressing  dreams.  He  was 
placed  under  medical  treatment  and  before  the  expiration  of  a  week, 
one  "comparatively  cheerful"  day  is  noted. 

On  the  second  Sunday  after  his  admission  he  took  some  part 
in  the  religious  service.  After  this  a  transient  eruption  appeared 
upon  his  skin,  followed  by  a  dejected  state  of  mind  again.  Again, 
however,  with  the  return  of  the  Sabbath  he  assisted..  Three  weeks 
after  admission,  while  laboring  under  a  melancholy  in  which  the  fact 
of  a  sister  having  been  similarly  afflicted,  also  his  brother  (who  died 
insane),  seemed  to  prey  upon  his  mind  and  add  hopelessness  to 
his  own  case,  he  wrote  the  following  expressive  lines,  which  are 
made  part  of  his  record: 

'*  'T  was  phrenzy's  hand  that  sadly  marred    • 

A  sister's  fairest  form  ; 
My  only  brother's  boat  went  down 

In  just  so  wild  a  storm. 
And  such,  I  fear,  will  be  my  fate, 

On  life's  dark  raging  sea; 
But  I  must  trust  in  Providence 

Wherever  I  may  be. 
Yes,  I  must  trust  in  Thee  O  God, 

Tho'  the  mind  is  marred  and  broken, 
I  feel  thy  just  and  dreadful  rod — 

The  hand  of  diseace  is  the  token, 
And  what  thou  doest  /  know  not  nozv, 

But  shall  know  at  the  judgment  morning  ; 
To  thy  dark  designs,  I  must  humbly  bow 
And  wait  for  the  light  of  its  dawning. 

Before  the  expiration  of  a  month  he  became  a  boarder  in  the 
Doctor's  family,  and  was  given  unrestricted  parole.  Thenceforward 
it  is  noted  that  he  steadily  improved,  and  regularly  officiated  at 
the  Sunday  Asylum  service  ;  and  he  was  discharged  recovered  at 
the  expiration  of  six  weeks  from  his  admission. 


RECORD  OF  1838. 


ACTIVE  building  operations  were  entered  upon  with  the  open- 
ing of  this  year.  It  is  recorded  January  24th  that  the 
"  Trustees  met,  and  after  considering  fully  the  plans  and 
estimates  of  a  new  building  for  the  Asylum,  submitted  by  Capt. 
Toby,  and  the  state  of  the  funds  of  the  Institution,  Voted^  To 
proceed  immediately  and  build  the  walls  of  brick  of  a  center  building 
and  one  wing,  on  the  plan  of  Capt.  Toby  ;  except  the  wing  to  be  only 
five  windows  long  instead  of  seven, — and  to  purchase  materials 
for  finishing  one,  and  to  finish  one  or  both  as  far  as  our  funds  will 
admit.  Also  Voted^  To  employ  Capt.  Merchant  Toby  of  Worcester 
to  superintend  the  erection  of  the  buildings,  make  contracts  for 
work  and  materials,  etc.,  and  that  he  be  directed  to  proceed  forth- 
with with  the  work.  Agreed  with  Capt.  Toby  to  pay  him  three  dol- 
lars per  day  while  actually  employed  in  this  business,  and  to  pay  his 
stage  fare  to  and  from  Worcester.     He  to  board  himself." 

On  the  1 6th  of  May  the  "Trustees  met  again,  and  in  consequence 
of  the  advice  and  recommendations  of  Capt.  Toby  and  Dr.  Rock- 
well, and  from  consideration  of  the  ultimate  wants  of  the  State  and 
the  economy  of  the  measure,  Voted,  To  direct  Capt.  Toby  to  extend 
the  wing  of  the  Asylum  now  being  erected,  to  seven  windows, — the 
length  originally  proposed  by  Capt.  Toby  in  his  plan." 

June  1 8th  another  meeting  is  recorded:  "Trustees  met  and  elected 
Asa  Keyes  of  Brattleboro  a  Trustee  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the 
Insane  to  fill  the  vacancy  occasioned  by  the  death  of  John  Holbrook, 
which  occurred  on  the  6th  of  April,  1838." 

On  the  1 6th  of  October  the  "Trustees  met,  all  present,  and 
adopted  their  Report  to  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State.  Also 
received  the  annual  Report  of  Dr.  Rockwell  the  Superintendent,  and 
accepted  it,  also  the  Report  of  the  Treasurer,  and  forwarded  the 
whole  to  the  Legislature.  Voted,  To  apply  to  the  Legislature  to 
authorize  the  Treasurer  of  the  State  to  accept  the  drafts  of  the 
Trustees  for  the  remainder  of  the  annual  payments  appropriated 
by  the  Act  of  October,   1835,  payable  at  the  times  when  they  would 


46  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

be  due  according  to  the  terms  of  the  Act,  to  enable  the  Trustees 
to  anticipate  their  payments,  and  thereby  to  complete  the  building 
now  begun. 

"  Asa  Keyes  appointed  committee  to  attend  to  the  procuring 
of  an  Act. 

"  Voted,  To  authorize  John  C.  Holbrook  and  Capt.  M.  Toby  to 
purchase  two  springs  of  water  for  the  use  of  the  Institution,  of 
H.  Pike,  on  the  best  terms  possible." 

The  latter  negotiation  was  accomplished  at  a  cost  of  $150.  (Oct. 
20th,  1838.) 

The  State  Treasurer  was  also  authorized  to  accept  the  drafts  of 
the  Trustees,  as  requested  ;  and  the  Trustees  were  thus  enabled 
to  go  on  with  safety  in  the  prosecution  of  their  work  of  erecting 
permanent  buildings. 

The  first  Report  upon  the  operations  of  the  Asylum  (Oct.  1837) 
has  been  given  in  full  in  the  record  for  the  last  year,  for  the  reason 
that  it  nowhere  exists  in  any  State  Document,  although  five  hundred 
copies  were  ordered  to  be  printed  for  distribution. 

The  two  preliminary  Reports  have  also  been  given  in  full,  as  they 
were  never  printed  for  circulation.  The  first  (Oct.  1S35)  was  pub- 
lished in  epitome,  in  journal  of  the  Assenibly,  pages  144-145,  The 
second  (Oct.  1836)  is  found  in  Journal  of  the  House,  pages  iS,  19, 
20,  in  full. 

The  second  regular  Report  (Oct.  1838)  exists  in  permanent 
connection  with  the  House  Journal  of  this  year.  See  Appendix 
to  same,  p.  vii,  and  as  all  the  subsequent  Reports  are  permanently 
preserved  in  State  Documents,  only  their  salient  points  will  hereafter 
be  noticed  in  connection  with  these  Annals. 

The  Trustees  in  their  Report  for  this  year  indulge  the  pleasing 
anticipation  of  speedily  occupying  the  new  buildings  with  their 
added  advantages  for  the  care  of  the  insane,  and  especially  manifest 
a  lively  interest  in  the  methods  of  treatment  employed,  and  results 
already  attained.  In  the  construction  of  the  buildings  durability  has 
been  first  considered,  but  not  to  the  exclusion  of  other  considerations. 
The  moral  effect  of  appliances  for  security  seems  to  have  been 
borne  equally  in  mind.  "  Each  room,"  they  say,  "  is  to  be 
furnished  with  a  bed,  and  a  permanent  seat  in  the  angle  of 
the  walls.  In  addition  to  this,  the  rooms  of  those  patients 
who  are  in  a  suitable  condition,  will  also  be  furnished  with  a 
chair,  a  work-table  and  a  small  mirror.  Each  of  these  rooms  is 
lighted  by  a  large  window,  in  which  is  an  upper  and  lower  cast  iron 
sash   firmly   fastened   to   the   window   frame.     The    upper   sash   is 


RECORD    OF   THE   YEAR    1838.  47 

glazed,  the  lower  one  is  not ;  but  corresponding  to  the  lower  one  in 
size  and  appearance  is  a  glazed  wooden  sash  which  can  be  raised 
and  lowered  at  pleasure.  The  whole  sash  is  painted  white,  and  has 
the  appearance  of  a  common  window.  This  removes  the  prison-like 
appearance  of  iron  bars,  and  at  the  same  time  prevents  escape  and 
injury."  This  quotation  is  made  especially  to  illustrate  the  corres- 
pondence of  ideas  then,  with  those  now  gaining  ground.  After 
a  generation  prolific  in  devices  for  window  guards  of  ornamental 
pattern,  the  conclusion  is  being  reached  that  it  all  results  in  making 
the  means  of  security  principally  conspicuous  ;  and  that  a  plain  iron 
sash  corresponding  exactly  to  the  window  panes  in  shape,  when 
painted  in  the  same  color  as  the  wood  sash,  is  least  noticeable 
and  objectionable.  The  conviction  of  Dr.  Rockwell  that  occupation 
and  especially  out-door  labor,  should  be  urged  and  instituted  as 
a  remedial  measure,  was  heartily  endorsed  by  the  Trustees,  who 
appear  to  have  especially  observed  its  working  and  thus  note  its 
results.  "  The  anticipations  of  the  benefits  resulting  from  constant 
exercise  in  the  open  air  while  laboring  on  the  farm,  have  been  more 
than  realized.  As  a  moral  remedy  in  the  curative  treatment  of  the 
insane  it  is  second  to  no  other.  One  of  the  patients,  a  respectable 
farmer  who  had  been  insane  about  three  years,  fancying  among 
other  things,  that  he  was  a  great  personage  and  consequently  above 
labor,  resided  six  months  at  the  Asylum  without  perceptible  benefit. 
During  this  time  he  was  so  much  opposed  to  labor  that  it  was  not 
enforced.  Perceiving  that  there  was  no  prospect  of  improvement  in 
the  course  that  had  been  pursued,  sufficient  motives  were  presented 
to  induce  him  to  labor  and  in  three  months  he  was  entirely  restored. 
It  is  now  ten  months  since  he  left  the  Institution,  and  we  are  happy 
to  learn  that,  he  continues  well.  Another  man,  who  had  been  insahe 
several  years,  was  brought  here  in  chains.  A  proposal  was  immedi- 
ately made  to  him,  that  if  he  would  do  no  injury  and  would  labor 
upon  the  farm,  his  chains  should  be  removed.  He  immediately 
complied,  and  the  next  day  he  was  taken  into  the  field  and  labored 
well.  Other  cases  might  be  mentioned  where  the  benefits  resulting 
from  labor  were  equally  apparent." 

Their  Report  concludes  with  the  following:  "There  is  one  sub- 
ject on  which  the  Trustees  would  not  fail  to  remark.  The  Asylum 
is  entirely  a  public  institution,  and  whatever  funds  may  arise,  from 
the  board  of  patients  and  other  sources,  are  applied  exclusively 
to  promote  the  objects  of  this  charity.  The  Trustees  serve  gratuit- 
ously, and  in  no  respect  is  the  Institution  a  source  of  profit 
pecuniarily  to  any  individual.  The  terms  are  fixed  as  low  as  con- 
sistent with  the  support  of  the  establishment." 


48  ANNALS  OF    THE  VERMONT  ASYEUM. 

The  Superintendent's  Report  shows  that  forty-seven  cases 
were  admitted  during  the  year  ending  October  i,  1838,  and  forty-five 
were  discharged  during  the  same  period,  leaving  at  the  date  just 
mentioned  thirty-six. 

Of  those  admitted  twenty-seven  were  reckoned  as  old  or  chronic 
cases,  and  twenty  were  recent  cases  of  not  more  than  six  months' 
duration.  Of  the  latter  eighty-eight  per  cent,  are  reported  to  have 
recovered.  Of  those  called  old  cases  a  percentage  of  twenty-six  and 
a  half  is  also  reported  recovered. 

This  latter  result  very  nearly  represents  the  ratio  of  recoveries  in 
all  cases  at  the  present  time.  Now,  however,  cases  of  twice  six 
months  would  be  regarded  as  recent;  hence  the  percentage  in  the 
above  would  have  been  considerably  lowered  had  those  whose  insanity 
ranged  from  six  to  twelve  months'  duration  been  included,  as  would 
also  that  of  the  old  cases. 

A  point  is  made,  however,  in  showing  the  importance  of  early 
treatment,  which  fifty  years  of  subsequent  experience  has  confirmed. 

These  results  also  tally  with  those  of  contemporary  reports,  but  the 
more  careful  study  of  the  Curability  of  Insanity,  as  pursued  by 
Dr.  Earle  of  the  Northampton  Lunatic  Hospital,  187 6- 1886,  has 
shown  that  in. these  early  years  no  distinction  was  made  between 
cases  and  persons,  and  that  many  of  the  cases  upon  which  statistics 
were  based,  were  recurrent  attacks  in  the  same  person.  When  these 
are  discriminated,  the  percentage  of  recovery  is  materially  lowered. 
In  the  management  of  the  patients  the  principles  of  treatment  are 
indicated  in  the  importance  given  to  labor  and  open-air  exercise, 
religious  exercise,  and  promotion  in  respect  to  classification,  as 
a  motive  to  effort  at  self-control,  responsibility  being  recognized  as 
far  as  possible. 

The  views  of  Dr.  Rockwell  respecting  the  nature  of  insanity  are 
here  fully  outlined. 

"The  cruel  treatment  of  the  insane  among  the  ancients  arose  in  a 
great  measure  from  their  notions  of  the  pathology  of  the  disorder. 
They  considered  the  mind  as  an  immaterial  and  independent  prin- 
ciple, and  not  affected  by  the  corporeal  system  in  health  or  disease. 

"  Bacon  was  the  first  to  explode  this  theory.  He  taught  that  the 
absolute  source  of  insanity,  if  ever  fully  developed,  will  be  found 
to  exist  in  corporeal  changes,  or  the  effects  of  external  agents  acting 
on  the  the  gross  machine,  and  not  primarily  on  the  immaterial  prin- 
ciple, as  has,  unfortunately  for  the  subjects  of  disease,  been  too 
commonly  apprehended."  *         *         *         *         *       .  ''In    the 

pathology  adopted  in  this  Asylum,  it  is  an  axiom  which  has  a  com- 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR   1838.  49 

manding  influence  on  its  practice,  that  insanity  is.  in  all  cases  a 
corporeal  disease,  existing  essentially  in  that  class  of  material  instru- 
ments or  organs  of  the  brain  which  are  immediately  and  exclusively 
subservient  to  the  functions  of  the  mind,  upon  which  it  acts,  and 
by  which  it  is  acted  upon,  without  pretending  to  understand  the 
nature  of  that  mysterious  tie  which  connects  the  immortal  and 
immaterial  essence  to  the  material  organs.  The  connection  is 
evident,  and  it  is  only  through  the  intervention  of  these  organs  that 
the  mind  can  here  be  manifested.  These  organs  of  the  mind  being 
therefore  considered  as  the  seat  of  the  disease,  and  the  morbid 
mental  phenomena  the  symptoms  only,  it  would  seem  to  be  rational 
to  employ  all  the  agents,  moral  and  physical,  which  are  capable 
of  effecting  favorable  changes  in  the  state  of  the  corporeal  organs. 
He,  therefore,  who  in  the  treatment  of  insanity,  confines  himself 
to  the  employment  of  one  class  of  agents,  whether  moral  or  medical, 
to  the  exclusion  of  the  other,  must  often  fail  of  success,  from  the 
want  of  that  efficiency  which  is  found  in  the  combined  action  of  both. 
Insanity  is  frequently  caused  by  a  diseased  state  of  the  body 
operating  through  sympathy  on  the  brain,  and  in  almost  every  case 
when  it  is  not  caused  by  bodily  diseases  it  is  greatly  aggravated 
by  them.  Medicine,  therefore,  is  frequently  essential  in  the  success- 
ful treatment  of  insanity.  When  we  restore  health  to  the  body, 
we  have  gained  an  important  step  towards  restoration  to  reason,  and 
frequently  the  manifestations  of  the  mind  become  immediately  sane. 
In  the  treatment  also  of  diseases  of  the  body,  moral  management 
is  a  useful  auxiliary,  and  sometimes  will  of  itself  effect  a  cure. 
I  make  these  remarks  to  show  the  importance  of  both  moral  and 
physical  remedies  in  the  curative  treatment  of  the  insane,  and  of  the 
difficulty  of  applying  both  these  remedies  except  in  institutions  pre- 
pared for  the  purpose." 

The  current  financial  exhibit  for  this  year,  shows : 
Income  from  board  of  patients,  etc.,  -  $5,045.46 

General  expenditures  for  the  year,  .  4,970.10 


Leaving  balance  on  hand,  $75-36 

Before  the  close  of  the  first  year's  operations,  the  of^cial  organ- 
ization included  Chauncy  Booth,  Jr.,  as  assistant  and  apothecary, 
and  Mrs.  Ann  F.  Wilkinson  as  matron.  These  officials  are  still  in 
service  at  the  date  of  this  report. 

The  cost  of  the  center  building  and  first  wing  west,  principally 
erected  during  this  year,  was  $12,399.67. 


RECORD   OF    1839. 


ON  THE  i6th  of  February  the  "Trustees  met,  and  examined 
the  new  building  erected  under  the  superintendence  of  Capt. 
Toby. 

"Appointed  S.  Clark  a  committee  to  examine  Capt.  Toby's 
account. 

"  Voted,  That  the  Board  of  Visitors  be  respectfully  requested  to 
visit  the  Institution  the  coming  week,  and  examine  its  condition 
agreeably  to  the  Act  of  Incorporation. 

"  Voted,  That  the  Treasurer  be  authorized  to  pay  the  expenses 
of  the  Board  of  Visitors  from  Newfane  to  this  place,  and  while  here 
on  the  above  business." 

In  the  Spring  of  this  year  another  vacancy  in  the  Board  occurred 
by  the  resignation  of  its  junior  member,  John  C.  Holbrook. 

On  the  4th  of  June,  "Trustees  met,  and  chose  Asa  Keyes  their 
Secretary  until  another  is  chosen,  and  after  examining  the  condition 
of  the  patients,  adjourned." 

July  2d,,  "  At  a  meeting  of  the  Trustees  at  the  Asylum,  present 
Samuel  Clark,  Epaphro'  Seymour  and  Asa  Keyes,  upon  due 
consideration,  Nathan  B.  Williston  of  Brattleboro  was  duly  elected 
and  appointed  a  Trustee  of  the  Vermont  Asylum,  to  fill  the  vacancy 
occasioned  by  the  removal  from  the  State  of  John  C.  Holbrook  ;  and 
upon  due  notice  thereof  the  said  Williston  accepted  said  appoint- 
ment, and  is  such  Trustee." 

On  the  I  St  of  October,  the  "Trustees  met  at  the  Asylum  and 
heard  and  adopted  the  Report  of  the  Superintendent,  and  prepared 
their  annual  Report. 

"  Voted,  That  said  Reports  be  transmitted  to  the  General 
Assembly  ^t  its  approaching  session."  • 

These  Reports  may  be  found  in  full  in  Appendix  to  House  Jour- 
nal page  39. 

The  Trustees  congratulate  themselves  upon  the  completion  of 
the  center,  and  west  contiguous  wing  of  the  permanent  buildings. 
"So  urgent  were  the  applications  for  admission,"  they  say,  "that  as 
soon  as  any   part  was   finished,    it  was   immediately  occupied   by 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEAR    1839.  51 

patients.  The  superintendent  and  family,  the  matron  and  a  few 
female  patients  now  reside  in  the  center  building.  The  new  wing  is 
appropriated  exclusively  for  the  accommodation  of  female  patients. 
All  the  females  therefore  are  kept  in  the  new  building.  The  assist- 
ant physician  and  all  the  male  patients  reside  in  the  former  building 
thereby  effecting  a  complete  separation  of  the  sexes." 

The  Trustees  refer  especially  to  the  continuance  of  the  system 
of  out-door  occupation,  and  say  "  there  is  no  moral  means  which  has 
proved   so   successful    in    restoring   our   curable    patients,    and   in 
improving  the  habits  of  the  incurable,    as  useful  labor.         *         * 
*         *  "The  female  patients  have  also  been  furnished  with 

employment,  according  to  their  former  habits  and  the  state  of  their 
minds.  All  of  the  bedding  of  the  establishment  since  the  opening 
of  the  Institution,  the  making  of  much  of  the  clothing,  except  what 
is  furnished  by  the  friends,  and  the  mending  of  the  same,  is  per- 
formed by  the  female  patients,  under  the  direction  of  the  matron  and 
nurses.  For  this  part  of  our  curative  treatment  much  credit  is  due 
to  the  matron,  whose  whole  time  and  exertions  are  devoted  to  the 
welfare  of  the  patients  with  a  zeal  worthy  of  success." 

It  is  gratifying  to  note  the  interest  manifested  by  the  Trustees  in 
individual  cases,  as  well  as  in  the  general  welfare  of  the  whole,  as 
may  be  seen  in  the  following  quotations  : 

"This  Institution  has  received  many  a  wretched  maniac,  whose 
presence  seemed  to  blight  every  prospect  of  happiness  while  he 
remained  with  his  family ;  it  has  removed  from  the  hands  and  feet 
of  the  insane  many  a  manacle  and  chain  ;  it  has  furnished  for  them 
a  pleasant  retreat,  where  they  have  enjoyed  all  the  liberty  and  com- 
fort of  which  their  condition  would  admit ;  and  last  but  not  least, 
it  has  restored  back  to  reason,  to  friends,  to  society  and  usefulness, 
rtiany  who  would  otherwise  have  dragged  out  a  miserable  existence 
in  an  incurable  insanity. 

"One  patient  was  brought  to  this  Institution,  who  had  been 
confined  during  the  warm  season  in  a  stable,  but  on  the  approach  of 
cold  weather  was  removed  to  the  Asylum,  and  in  due  time  recovered. 
He  had  been  very  violent,  and  no  place  in  his  house  was  supposed 
to  be  strong  enough  to  secure  him.  After  the  family  and  physician 
supposed  they  had  made  use  of  the  best  means  in  their  power  with- 
out any  benefit,  he  was  removed  to  the  Asylum,  accompanied  by 
a  letter  from  the  family  physician  to  the  superintendent,  giving  an 
account  of  his  case  and  treatment,  and  concluding  by  observing, 
what  is  best  for  him  I  hope  some  one  knows  better  than 

,  M.  D. 


52  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

"  Another  was  brought  to  this  Asylum  who  was  very  violent,  and 
in  a  former  paroxysm  had  been  chained,  so  that  the  chain  had  worn 
in  upon  the  bone  of  one  of  his  legs.  When  he  arrived  at  this  Insti- 
tution all  articles  of  restraint  were  removed  from  him,  and  in  three 
months  he  was  restored  to  his  family  entirely  recovered. 

"  Another  was  the  case  of  a  young  man  whose  parents  were  in 
very  moderate  circumstances.  He  remained  in  their  family  until  he 
became  so  violent  that  he  was  taken  to  the  almshouse,  and  placed 
under  its  keeper.  But  his  violence  was  so  increased  and  he  was  so 
mischievous,  noisy,  and  dangerous,  that  he  was  taken  to  Windsor 
(an  adjoining  town)  and  placed  in  the  State  Prison,  as  the  only  place 
where  he  could  be  controlled.  Here,  finding  himself  among  crim- 
inals and  felons,  his  disease  was  aggravated,  and  so  great  was  his 
disturbance  that  he  was  finally  brought  to  this  establishment.  He 
was  then  mischievous,  offering  violence  to  every  one  who  came  in  his 
way,  and  endeavoring  to  disturb  the  comfort  of  all  around  him. 
After  a  residence  of  three  months  at  this  Institution  he  was  restored 
to  reason,  and  has  become  a  quiet,  peaceable  young  man.  We 
might  mention  others  who  have  been  brought  to  this  place,  who  had 
been  caged  in  out-buildings  until  their  extremities  had  been  frozen ; 
not  to  mention  many  other  scenes  from  which  humanity  revolts." 

These  cases  are  interesting  as  illustrative  of  the  kind  at  this  time 
claiming  admission,  and  as  witnesses  to  methods  of  treatment  resorted 
to  before  asylums  were  instituted; — but  in  the  light  of  a  subsequent 
half  century  one  can  hardly  attribute  recovery  in  these  to  asylum 
treatment  alone,  when  it  is  known  that  cases  of  acute  violent  mania, 
whether  primary  or  recurrent  in  form,  recover  in  an  average  of  three 
to  six  months  usually,  under  ordinary  hygienic  conditions,  and  often 
despite  some  injudicious  management  and  environment. 

The  Report  of  the  Superintendent  shows  that  seventy-one  cases 
have  been  received  and  thirty-eight  have  been  discharged  in  the 
last  twelve  months,  leaving  sixty-nine  in  the  Asylum  at  this  date. 
The  rate  of  recoveries  is  fully  as  great  as  in  the  last  year,  being 
eighty-nine  per  cent,  on  cases  under  six  months'  duration,  and  twenty- 
eight  per  cent,  on  those  of  longer  standing. 

The  principles  of  treatment  pursued  are  indicated  in  the  follow- 
ing quotation:  "As  soon  as  a  patient  manifests  any  return  of 
reason  his  liberties  are  increased,  and  he  is  encouraged  to  exercise 
his  judgment  and  self-control  by  joining  in  the  employments  and 
amusements  of  the  convalescents,  by  associating  with  them  and  the 
officers,  and  having,  so  far  as  is  practicable,  the  privileges  of  an 
ordinary  boarder  at  a  public  boarding  house.     To  retain  this  confi- 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1839.  53 

dence,  the  patient  endeavors  to  control  his  disordered  feeUngs  and 
frequently  succeeds  in  regaining  the  lost  balance  of  his  mind.  Those 
who  have  sufficiently  improved  walk  about  unaccompanied  by  any 
one,  visit  the  different  places  in  the  village,  and  in  a  word  are  their 
own  keepers.  They  rarely  abuse  the  confidence  thus  placed  in 
them ;  and  frequently  assist  the  farmer  and  attendants  in  watching 
those  who  require  it." 

Some  observations  upon  the  excitants  to  insanity  deserve  noting. 
"Insanity  increases  with  civilization  and  refinement.  The  farther 
we  depart  from  the  simple  habits  and  customs  of  our  ancestors  the 
more  shall  we  prepare  for  the  introduction  of  this  disorder.  When 
we  take  a  view  of  our  country  and  witness  its  advancement  in  wealth, 
civilization  and  refinement,  the  many  powerful  temptations  to 
embark  in  hazardous  enterprises,  the  sudden  accumulation  and  loss 
of  property  which  frequently  happens,  the  freedom  of  our  institu- 
tions by  which  the  humblest  citizen  may  aspire  to  the  highest  office 
in  the  gift  of  the  people,  the  fierce  and  persevering  strifes  which  are 
everywhere  carried  on,  both  in  the  accumulation  of  wealth  and  in 
obtaining  political  distinction,  and  the  many  trials  of  disappointment 
and  mortification  to  which  all  are  liable,  who  can  doubt  the  many 
active  and  operating  causes  to  increase  this  disease  in  our  country? 
Persons  of  all  classes  and  stations  in  life  are  liable  to  this  affliction. 
Those  who  are  now  rejoicing  in  the  blessings  of  health  and  reason 
may  soon  be  afflicted  with  this  severe  calamity." 

The  influence  of  religious  exercises  upon  the  insane  is  dwelt  upon 
at  some  length.  The  chapel  room  in  the  new  center  building,  for 
Sunday  gatherings,  is  hailed  with  satisfaction,  while  the  separation  of 
the  male  patients  from  the  females,  in  the  now  detached  building,  is 
deplored,  inasmuch  as  their  attendance  upon  family  devotions  during 
the  week  is  precluded. 

"  Much  of  the  good  effect  of  religious  worship, "  says  Dr.  Rock- 
well, "  depends  on  the  prudence  and  discretion  with  which  it  is 
managed.  We  consider  the  judicious  employment  of  religious  exer- 
cises an  important  part  of  our  moral  treatment.  They  serve  to  pro- 
mote order,  revive  their  former  grateful  habits  and  associations,  and 
recall  into  exercise  that  self-control  which  tends  to  their  recovery. 
That  religion  which  breathes  'peace  on  earth  and  good  will  to  men,' 
and  whose  cheering  influences  extend  beyond  the  grave,  affords 
solace  and  consolation  to  the  insane,  as  well  as  comfort  to  the  rational 
mind, 

"  No  one  who  has  witnessed  the  influence  of  the  Christian  religion 
on  the  human  mind  can  for  a  moment  doubt  its  efficacy  in  producing 


54  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

serenity  under  all  the  trials  of  life,  and  in  preventing  shipwreck  of 
reason  which  would  otherwise  inevitably  follow.  I  have  always 
noticed  that  the  humble  believer  in  Christianity  recovered  more 
readily  from  insanity  than  one  who  was  not.  As  soon  as  the  former 
has  one  ray  of  returning  reason  he  has  something  to  which  he  clings 
and  which  soothes  and  sustains  him  under  all  his  troubles.  From 
the  effect  of  proper  religious  exersises  upon  the  minds  of 
the  insane,  we  have  no  doubt  but  the  time  will  soon  come  when 
they  will  be  considered  as  important  moral  means  in  the  management 
of  every  well  regulated  asylum." 

The  financial  statement  for  this  year  shows  : 
Income  from  board  of  patients,  etc.,  $7,926.54 

General  current  expenditures,  7,612.68 


Leaving  balance  on  hand,  $313.86 

No  change  in  the  resident  officers  has  taken  pla'ce  the  past  year. 


RECORD   OF    1840. 


THE  Reports  of  this  year  of  the  Trustees  and  Superintendent 
were  printed  in  Appendix  to  House  Journal  in  full,  see  page 
132.  That  of  the  Trustees  appeals  especially  in  behalf  of 
the  poor  insane,  as  follows : 

"As  it  is  the  acknowledged  duty  of  governments  to  provide  for  the 
poor  and  destitute,  have  not  the  insane  poor  of  this  State  paramount 
claims  to  those  of  any  other  class  of  our  fellow  men  ?  The  necessity 
of  providing  for  the  deaf,  dumb,  and  blind,  is  universally  acknowl- 
edged. But  there  is  not  an  argument  in  favor  of  providing  for  that 
unfortunate  class,  but  will  apply  with  tenfold  greater  force  in  favor 
of  the  insane.  While  the  Legislature  has  made  such  ample  provis- 
ion for  them,  we  trust  they  will  not  forget  a  still  more  afflicted  class 
of  our  fellow  citizens.  There  are  more  than  twenty  insane  persons, 
to  one  who  is  deaf  and  dumb,  or  blind.  A  deaf  and  dumb,  or  blind 
person,  is  not  necessarily  unhappy,  or  a  burden  to  his  friends.  Most 
of  them  can  amply  support  themselves.  But  with  the  insane,  their 
disease  shuts  them  out  from  all  enjoyment.  The  families  with  which 
they  are  connected  experience  the  most  poignant  sensations  of  grief 
and  anxiety,  and  frequently  are  exposed  to  the  greatest  dangers. 
Whatever  funds  th'e  Legislature  may  appropriate  for  the  benefit  of  the 
insane,  reanain  permanent  in  our  own  State  (referring  manifestly 
to  funds  appropriated  for  the  extension  of  accommodation),  the  ben- 
efits of  which  those  of  future  generations  can  partake,  as  well 
as  those  of  the  present  time." 

The  Legislature  is  also  asked  to  exempt  the  attendants  of  the 
Asylum  from  militia  duty. 

"We  ask  no  exemption  for  any,"  say  they,  "except  those  whose 
exclusive  duty  it  is  to  attend  upon  the  patients.  If  we  could  supply 
their  places  by  temporary  substitutes,  we  would  not  make  the  request. 
Their  situation  is  one  which  a  person  unacquainted  with  its  duties, 
can  but  poorly  perform." 

This  request  was  complied  with. 


56  ^        ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

The  Superintendent  reports  that  seventy-three  new  cases  have 
been  admitted  in  the  year  past,  and  sixty-one  have  been  discharged, 
leaving,  Oct.  ist,  eighty-one.  The  percentages  vary  scarcely  at  all 
from  preceding  years,  eighty-eight  of  recent  cases,  and  twenty-eight 
of  chronic  cases  having  recovered.  Chronicity,  on  admission,  is 
deplored.  One  perplexity  which  is  still  constantly  experienced,  that 
of  injudicious  removals,  is  thus  commented  upon  : 

"  Another  mistake  in  regard  to  the  insane  is  the  premature  removal 
of  the  patient  from  the  Asylum.  It  frequently  happens  that  when  a 
patient  is  placed  at  a  lunatic  asylum,  his  wild  and  violent  conduct 
soon  gives  way  to  that  of  calmness  and  comparative  quietude, 
although  he  may  be  far  from  being  restored.  In  the  meantime  he 
is  visited  by  some  of  his  friends  and  acquaintances,  who,  finding  him 
orderly  in  his  behavior,  sadly  misjudge  that  he  might  as  well  be 
at  home  as  at  the  Asylum.  This  opinion  is  frequently  communicated 
to  the  patient,  and  his  desire  to  return  then  becomes  so  great  that 
there  is  about  as  great  danger  in  retaining  him — dissatisfied  as  he  will 
be — as  letting  him  return  home  and  hazarding  a  relapse.  Sometimes 
the  friends  of  the  patient  anticipate  a  recovery  before  an  adequate  trial 
has  been  made.  This  more  frequently  happens  in  old  cases.  The 
friends  frequently  think  six  months  or  a  year  is  an  abundant  time  of 
trial,  for  even  an  old  case.  We  have  had  several  patients  recover 
who  had  made  no  improvement  the  first  year. 

"One  patient  was  brought  to  the  Asylum  in  June,  1838.  He  had 
been  insane  two  years,  and  during  the  last  several  months  was  so 
violent  as  to  be  caged  and  chained.  As  soon  as  he  was  placed  in 
the  Asylum  he  was  put  under  a  regular  course  of  treatmer^t,  but  no 
radical  change  occurred  during  the  first  two  years  of  his  residence  at 
this  place.  In  June  1840,  he  was  apparently  in  much  the  same  state 
as  he  was  at  the  time  of  his  admission,  although  his  habits  had 
improved.  Soon  after  he  began  to  improve,  and  in  September  he 
was  discharged  entirely  well.  Had  he  been  removed  at  the  end 
of  six  months  as  is  usually  the  case,  and  been  returned  to  his  former 
cage,  he  would  undoubtedly  have  remained  insane  through  life. 
This,  and  other  facts,  prove  that  old  cases  are  not  necessarily  incur- 
able, and  that  some  recover  under  the  most  discouraging  circum- 
stances ;  therefore  a  reasonable  trial  should  be  made  with  them. 
But  the  greatest  chances  of  success  are  with  the  recent  cases,  most 
of  which  recover  when  placed  under  proper  curative  treatment  at  a 
lunatic  asylum. 

"To  show  that  chronic  cases  are  not  necessarily  incurable  I  will 
mention  one  or  two  that  have  been  restored  to  health  and  reason. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1840.  57 

In  October,  1839,  a  lady  who  was  a  widow  of  superior  education  and 
former  usefulness,  was  admitted  into  the  Asylum.  She  had  been, 
insane  about  six  years.  When  she  was  brought  to  this  place  she  was 
very  wild,  violent  and  mischievous.  Her  friends  did  not  expect  she 
would  be  restored,  but  supposed  she  would  be  made  more  comfort- 
able at  an  asylum  than  at  any  other  place.  She  was  put  under 
a  regular  course  of  treatment,  and  after  the  first  six  weeks  began  to 
improve.  Her  improvement  was  slow,  but  gradual,  and  at  the  end 
of  six  months  she  appeared  to  be  perfectly  restored.  She  remained 
with  us  until  June  when  she  returned  in  her  right  mind  to  her  children, 
to  afford  them  that  instruction  which  they  can  receive  only  from 
a  mother. 

"Another  case  was  admitted  in  February,  1840.  He  was  a 
respectable  farmer,  and  forty-six  years  of  age.  He  had  been  insane 
about  five  years,  and  during  the  last  several  months  previous  to  his 
admission,  was  loaded  with  irons  and  chained  to  the  floor  in  the 
county  jail,  where  he  resided.  His  hands  and  feet  were  chained 
when  he  was  admitted.  His  chains  were  of  course  immediately 
removed.  He  was  put  under  a  mild  discipline  and  regular  medica- 
tion, the  result  of  which  was  that  he  returned  home  well  in  June, 
and  is  attending  to  his  farm  comfortable  and  happy." 

A  detail  of  individual  cases,  of  exceptional  course,  is  always 
interesting  and  instructive  ;  and  the  foregoing  affords  basis  for  a 
hopeful  prognosis  even  after  the  stamp  of  chronicity  is  upon  them. 

The  current  accounts  of  this  year  were  as  follows: 
The  income  from  board  of  patients,  $9,926.86 

The  general  expenditures,  9,473.67 


Leaving  balance  on  hand  of,  $453.19 

On  the  6th  of  October  the  "Trustees  met,  and  adopted  their 
Annual  Report  to  the  Legislature,  also  read  and  accepted  the  Annual 
Report  of  the  Superintendent,  and  directed  said  Report  [the  fore- 
going], to  be  transmitted  to  the  Legislature  at  its  approaching 
session. 

"  And  whereas  the  Asylum  is  already  filled  with  patients.  Voted, 
To  memorialize  the  Legislature  to  furnish  means  for  the  erection  of 
the  other  wing  of  the  new  buildings,  and  Dr.  Rockwell,  the  Superin- 
tendent, was  authorized  to  appear  before  the  Legislature,  to  exhibit 
and  explain  to  them  the  pressing  wants  of  this  Institution." 

The  following  was  the  result  of  this  showing : 

"  An  Act  making  an  Appropriation  to  the  Vermont  Asylum  for 
the  Insane. 


58  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

"Sec.  I.  The  Treasurer  of  this  State  is  directed  to  pay  to  the 
Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  fcr  the  Insane,  four  thousand  dol- 
lars, in  two  annual  instalments,  the  first  instalment  to  be  paid  on 
the  2oth  day  of  October,  in  the  year  1841,  to  enable  said  Trustees  to 
erect  an  additional  wing  to  the  building  of  that  Institution,  and  the 
said  Treasurer  may  accept  drafts  for  the  several  instalments  payable 
as  above  mentioned. 

"  Sec  2.  This  grant  is  made  on  the  condition  that  the  amount  here- 
tofore granted  by  the  Legislature,  shall  be  exclusively  appropriated  to 
the  purpose  for  which  the  Institution  was  established,  and  if  the  said 
Institution  should  at  any  time  cease  to  exist,  the  real  estate  of  said 
corporation  shall  be  held  as  security  to  this  State  for  the  amount  so 
granted,  and  may  be  sold  under  the  direction  of  this  Legislature  for 
the  purpose  of  raising  such  amount,  and  the  said  real  estate  shall  at 
no  time  be  sold  by  said  Trustees,  without  the  consent  of  this  Legis- 
lature. 

"Approved  October  29th,  1840." 

On  the  30th  of  November,  "  The  Trustees  met  at  the  Asylum,  all 
being  present,  and  after  taking  into  consideration  the  liberal  grant 
by  the  Legislature  of  four  thousand  dollars,  at  their  present  session, 
for  the  purpose,  Voted,  unanimously,  That  we  will  as  early  as 
practicable  the  ensuing  summer,  erect  the  east  wing  of  the  new 
building,  upon  the  same  plan  as  the  west  wing,  and  with  similar 
materials  as  far  as  practicable.  Voted,  also.  That  N.  B.  Williston 
be  authorized  to  make  contracts  for  workmen  and  building  mate- 
rials." 

No  change  in  the  resident  corps  of  officers  the  past  year. 


RECORD  OF  184 


THE  first  meeting  of  the  Trustees  this  year  was  held  at"  the 
Bank,  January  25th,  all  being  present. 
"Epaphro'  Seymour  resigned  the  office  of  Treasurer,  which 
resignation    was    accepted;    and  N.   B.  Williston    was    unanimously 
appointed. 

"  Voted,  To  meet  at  the  Asylum  the  first  Tuesday  of  every  month 
the  present  year,  at  2  o'clock  p.  m.,  the  month  of  February  excepted. 

"■  The  Superintendent  appearing  before  the  Board,  and  repre- 
senting that  the  number  of  patients  was  constantly  increasing,  inso- 
much that  the  proposed  new  wing  when  completed  would  be  inade- 
quate to  accommodate  all  the  patients,  and  the  Trustees  being  satis- 
fied that  it  would  be  economy  to  enlarge  their  former  plans — 

"  Voted,  therefore,  That  we  will  build  the  new  wing  ninety  feet 
long  (10  windows)  instead  of  the  length  voted  at  our  meeting  of  the 
30th  of  November  last." 

At  the  October  meeting  the  "  Trustees  adopted  their  Annual 
Report  to  the  Legislature,  also  that  of  the  superintendent,  and 
directed  said  Reports  to  be  transmitted  to  the  Legislature  at  their 
approaching  session." 

The  Trustees  refer  especially  to  the  appropriation  made  by  the 
last  Legislature,  by  which  they  are  enabled  to  erect  the  east  wing, 
which  is  expected  to  be  completed  during  the  present  year. 

"So  numerous  had  been  the  applications  for  admission,"  they  say, 
"  it  was  found  the  wings  of  the  new  building  should  be  of  greater 
length  than  was  originally  contemplated.  The  wing  erected  the 
present  season  is  twenty-seven  feet  longer  than  the  other,  w^hich  will 
also  be  lengthened  as  soon  as  the  funds  of  the  Asylum  will  admit, 
that  the  symmetrical  proportions  may  be  preserved,  and  greater 
accommodations  furnished."  This  foreshadows  a  policy  of  further 
extension  in  obedience  to  the  constantly  increasing  pressure  which 
from  that  day  to  this  has  never  ceased  to  be  felt. 

The  Superintendent  bears  testimony  to  the  salubrity  of  the  loca- 
tion, now  five  years  tested  :     "  The  mountain,  air  is  very  favorable  to 


6o  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

the  health  of  our  inmates.  Our  male  patients  have  been  employed 
in  agricultural  pursuits  and  other  employments  in  the  open  air,  more 
than  those  of  any  other  similar  institution  in  the  country.  We  also 
amuse  them  by  walking,  riding,  playing  ball,  quoits,  and  other  various 
out-door  amusements.  Our  female  patients  are  taken  out  for  riding, 
walking,  visiting  the  garden  and  culling  its  flowers,  of  which  we  have 
a  great  variety.  We  endeavor  to  have  all  our  female  patients,  who 
are  sufficiently  quiet,  ride  every  fair  day.  Those  who  are  wild  are 
frequently  taken  out  to  walk  about  the  premises." 

The  proper  association  of  patients  is  likewise  discussed. 

"  A  proper  classification  of  the  patients  of  a  lunatic  asylum  is  of 
great  importance  in  their  moral  treatment.  The  continued  efforts 
at  self-control  and  self-respect,  which  they  make  to  retain  their  places 
or  to  be  promoted,  contribute  much  to  their  improvement  and  resto- 
ration. The  desire  of  the  good  opinion  of  others  is  so  universal  a 
principle  of  our  nature,  that  whatever  calls  it  into  proper  exercise 
has  a  favorable  effect  in  counteracting  those  morbid  propensities 
with  which  the  insane  are  so  often  afflicted.  All  our  attendants  and 
assistants  have  it  repeatedly  impressed  on  their  minds  as  a  funda- 
mental principle  of  our  treatment,  that  they  are  at  all  times  to  treat 
every  patient  with  due  respect,  and  that  to  neglect  this  rule  is  to 
neglect  one  of  the  principal  means  of  recovery." 

The  movement  of  the  population  this  year  shows  eighty-four 
admissions,  and  seventy  discharges ;  ninety-five  remaining  at  the 
date  of  this  Report.  A  singular  uniformity  in  the  results  as  com- 
pared with  preceding  years  is  maintained  ;  eighty-eight  per  cent, 
of  recent  and  twenty-eight  of  chronic  cases  having  recovered. 

Since  the  date  of  the  preceding  Report  a  change  has  been  made 
in  the  assistant  medical  officer.  Dr.  Chauncy  Booth,  Jr.,  having  been 
succeeded  by  Dr.  Samuel  B.  Low. 

The  foregoing  Reports  in  full,  may  be  found  in  Appendix  to 
House  Journal,  page  80. 

A  purchase  was  this  year  made  (April  7)  of  an  undivided  sixth 
part  of  the  reservoir  of  water  standing  west  of  the  residence  of  the 
late  Dea.  John  Holbrook,  for  $112,  of  one  James  Minott.  Cost  of 
carrying  pipe  $138  additional. 

The  current  expenses  of  the  year  show  : 
Income  from  board  of  patients,  etc.,  $11,830.26 

General  expenditures,  $11,549.13 


Leaving  balance  of  $290.13 

The  co.st  of  the  first  wing  east,  erected  this  year,  was  $7,769.87. 


RECORD  OF  1842, 


THE  Annual  Reports  for  this  year  were  adopted  and  duly  trans- 
mitted to  the  Legislature  in  October.  See  Appendix  to 
House  Journal,  page  132. 

At  this  meeting  it  was  Voted,  "That  the  salary  of  Dr.  Rockwell, 
the  Superintendent,  shall  be,  from  and  after  November  ist  next, 
twelve  hundred  dollars  per  annum." 

"Since  the  last  Annual  Report,  say  the  Trustees,  the  new  wing 
has  been  completed,  which  has  furnished  additional  accommodations 
and  has  increased  our  facilities  for  a  better  classification  of  the 
patients.  Large  and  well  ventilated  halls,  neat  and  pleasant  sleeping 
rooms,  plenty  of  pure  water,  and  kind  and  faithful  attendants  are 
furnished  the  establishment,  and  everything  is  supplied  to  promote 
the  comfort  of  the  unfortunate  inmates.  The  Trustees  confidently 
believe  that  this  Institution  now  possesses  all  the  facilities  for  resto- 
ration, which  can  be  found  at  any  similar  institution  in  our 
country." 

The  Superintendent  shows,  with  the  Trustees,  the  feeling  of  satis- 
faction at  the  enlarged  capacity  of  the  establishment,  and  in  turn 
reports  increased  curative  results.  During  the  preceding  year  one 
hundred  and  one  were  admitted,  and  eighty-three  discharged,  leaving 
one  hundred  and  thirteen  under  care.  Of  those  discharged  near 
ninety  per  cent  of  the  recent  cases  are  reported  as  having  recovered, 
and  near  thirty-two  per  cent,  of  the  chronic  class. 

Testimony  to  the  value  of  systematic  labor  is  here  repeated,  and 
leaves  no  doubt  of  the  Doctor's  sincere  convictions  upon  this  matter 
which,  inaugurated  at  the  opening  of  the  Asylum,  could  now  be 
affirmed  with  the  strength  of  each  year's  added  experience. 

"  In  our  endeavors  to  restore  the  insane,"  says  he,  "our  chief 
object  is  to  make  use  of  such  means  as  shall  tend  to  promote  the 
health  of  the  patient,  and  keep  his  mind  agreeably  occupied.  One 
of  the  best  means  we  have  found  for  this  purpose  is  exercise  in 
the  open  air.  For  those  of  our  male  patients  who  are  able,  and 
whose  former  pursuits  have  been  agricultural,  employment  by  useful 


62  ANNALS   OF   THE   VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

labor  in  the  garden  and  on  the  farm  has  proved  very  beneficial.  It 
operates  morally  by  occupying  the  attention,  and  diverting  the  mind 
from  its  morbid  fancies,  and  physically  by  improving  the  health  of 
the  patient.  We  are  constantly  making  improvement  on  the  farm, 
which  in  a  few  years  will  be  in  a  high  and  profitable  state  of  cultiva- 
tion. More  land  is  needed  to  furnish  sufficient  employment  for  our 
patients." 

A  change  in  the  resident  corps  of  officers  this  year  occurred  in 
the  resignation  of  Mrs.  Ann  F.  Wilkinson  as  matron,  and  the 
appointment  of  Mrs.  Deborah  K.  Baker  as  her  successor. 

The  current  accounts  of  this  year  are  as  follows  : 
Income  from  board  of  patients,  $J  2,935.36 

General  expenditures,  12,615.54 


Leaving  balance  on  hand  of,  $319.82 

Additional  water  supply  was  also  purchased  this  year  from  the 

same  source  as  last  year,  of  Asa  Green,  at  a  cost  of  $150.     (Sept. 

17,  '42.) 

The  Report  of  this  year  was  reviewed  by  Rev.  Louis  Dwight, 
in  the  Report  of  the  Prison  Discipline  Society  of  the  following  year, 
in  a  very  commendatory  strain,  as  follows:  "  The  terms  of  admission 
are,  for  indigent  patients  of  Vermont  $2.00  per  week  or  $100  per 
year ;  for  all  others  $2.50  per  week  for  the  first  six  months ;  after 
that  time  $2.00.  No  charge  is  made  for  damages  in  any  case.  The 
means  of  cure  in  this  Institution  are  abundant,  and  well  adapted 
to  the  end.  Its  whole  history  is  one  of  success,  with  as  little  varia- 
tion as  can  be  found  in  almost  anything  human." 


RECORD  OF  1843. 


THE  Reports  of  this  year  may  be  found  in  full  in  Appendix 
to  House  Journal,  page  60. 
The  Trustees  set  forth,  "That  the  present  building  is  fast 
filling  with  patients.  The  right  wing,  which  was  built  too  small 
(7  rooms  in  length)  needs  enlarging,  as  well  for  the  accommodation 
and  comfort  of  the  inmates,  as  to  preserve  the  just  and  proper  pro- 
portions and  symmetry  of  the  building  (the  left  wing  being  10  rooms 
long).  It  is  sincerely  hoped  that  the  Legislature  will  not  fail  to 
grant  that  assistance  for  this  object,  which  is  so  urgently  needed. 
We  trust  that  the  same  fostering  care  and  generous  support  which 
they  have  hitherto  extended,  will  be  continued  to  this  Institution, 
and  that  'The  blessings  of  many  who  are  ready  to  perish  '  will  attend 
all  who  assist  in  relieving  this  greatest  of  human  afflictions." 

This  was  the  last  appeal  ever  made  by  the  Trustees  for  State  aid 
in  providing  Asylum  accommodations. 

The  Superintendent  notes  in  his  Report  of  this  year  a  new  and 
novel  enterprise,  as  follows: 

"  During  the  past  year  we  have  published  a  small  newspaper, 
called  the  'Asylum  Journal,'  which  has  exerted  a  beneficial  influence 
on  the  comfort  and  recovery  of  the  patients.  We  have  had  more 
than  two  hundred  exchange  papers,  besides  many  other  periodicals, 
to  the  editors  and  publishers  of  which  we  would  tender  our  most 
grateful  acknowledgments.  We  have  been  able  to  furnish  every 
patient  with  a  newspaper  of  his  own  political  views,  and  every  secta- 
rian with  a  religious  periodical  of  his  own  peculiar  sentiments. 

"  Our  obligations  to  the  publishers  of  our  exchange  papers,  and 
the  gratification  with  which  they  have  been  read,  has  been  well  dis- 
cussed in  a  former  number  of  the  Asylum  Journal:  'To  our 
exchange  papers  we  make  our  humble  acknowledgments.  We  have 
now  upon  our  list  upwards  of  two  hundred,  besides  quite  a  number 
of  daily  papers,  and  many  of  the  best  periodicals  in  the  country. 
We  have  not  the  presumption  to  suppose  that  our  little  Journal  is  at 
all  equivalent  to  the  many  mammoth  sheets  it  brings  in  exchange, 


64  ANNALS    OF    THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

nor  is  it  wonderful  that  it  should  not  be  so,  removed  as  we  are  from 
the  mart  of  news,  and  swayed  by  'crazy  minds.'  But  could  they 
know  the  infinite  satisfaction  they  give  to  many  of  us  they  would  be 
amply  repaid.  It  is  like  a  wanderer  in  a  distant  clime,  stumbling 
suddenly  upon  a  pile  of  newspapers  printed  in  his  own  neighbor- 
hood, who  for  months  and  years,  perhaps,  has  not  heard  from  his 
native  land.  With  what  eagerness  he  seizes  them,  retires  to  his  own 
apartment,  runs  them  over  and  over — hastily  at  first,  and  more 
leisurely  and  minutely  afterwards,  lest  some  important  item  be  over- 
looked— gathering  from  them  more  than  could  be  embodied  in 
twenty  voluminous  epistles.  And  as  he  skips  from  advertisement  to 
advertisement,  it  seems  as  if  he  were  in  reality  once  more  in  his 
native  village,  wandering  from  shop  to  shop,  reviewing  the  long 
rows  of  well-filled  shelves,  and  clasping  joyously  by  the  hand  those 
with  whose  names  he  is  so  familiar.  Like  the  first  rays  of  the 
morning  sun  to  him  who  has  been  all  night  grovelling  in  the  dark, 
they  do  much  towards  dispelling  the  heavy  cloud  that  hangs  over 
us,  and  shed  the  first  dawn  of  reason  upon  our  shattered  minds. 

"  But  our  Journal  will  soon  pass  into  other  hands,  and  we  shall 
pass  into  the  bustling  world  without,  again  to  contend  with  wayward 
fortune.  Think  you  we  shall  ever  forget  the  time  we  have  passed 
within  these  walls?  Never  !  Our  minds  will  oft  recur  to  the  varied 
scenes  our  bewildered  fancies  have  conjured  up,  whose  impress,  like 
some  thrilling  tales  stamped  upon  the  susceptible  brain  of  childhood, 
neither  time  nor  circumstances  can  ever  erase.'" 

Exactly  whose  conception  this  enterprise  was  does  not  fully 
appear ;  but  it  was  regarded  by  Dr.  Rockwell  certainly  as  a  legiti- 
mate extension  of  the  field  of  occupation,  to  which  he  was  fully 
committed. 

"A  small  portion  only,"  he  further  says,  "are  capable  of  writing 
for  it,  but  many  are  employed  in  making  selections,  and  this  employ- 
ment diverts  the  mind  from  its  own  delusions,  and  aids,  with  other 
means,  in  restoring  its  just  balance.  Those  of  our  patients  who  have 
been  students,  we  employ  to  write  and  select  for  the  Journal,  and 
those  who  have  been  merchants  and  business  men  we  employ  to  fold 
and  direct  the  papers.  Some  who  do  not  compose  assist  by  making 
selections,  and  by  copying  extracts  from  books  or  papers.  We  find 
the  employment  of  our  patients  in  writing,  either  by  way  of  copying 
or  of  composition,  to  be  very  beneficial,  as  it  diverts  their  attention 
from  their  delusions  and  presents  new  objects  of  thought  for  con- 
templation. We  always  furnish  them  with  stationery,  and  the  em- 
ploying of  themselves  in  writing  has  apparently  been  a  powerful  means 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1843.  65 

in  their   restoration.      They  are  allowed  to  write   on  all  subjects 
except  those  of  their  hallucinations." 

The  appeal  to  the  Legislature  for  aid  in  the  further  extension  of 
Asylum  capacity  resulted  in  the  following : 

"  An  Act  Making  an  Appropriation  to  the  Vermont  Asylum  for 
the  Insane. 

"Sec.  I.  It  is  hereby  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly 
of  the  State  of  Vermont  as  follows :  The  Treasurer  of  this 
State  is  directed  to  pay  to  the  Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for 
the  Insane,  three  thousand  dollars,  to  be  paid  on  the  first  day  of 
October,  1844,  to  enable  the  Trustees  to  extend  one  of  the  wings  of 
the  building,  and  to  make  repairs  for  the  purpose  of  further  accom- 
dating  the  patients  of  said  Institution  ;  and  the  said  Treasurer  may 
accept  a  draft  for  the  payment,  as  above  mentioned. 

"  Sec.  2.  This  grant  is  made  on  the  condition  that  the  amount 
together  with  the  amount  heretofore  granted  by  this  Legislature, 
shall  be  exclusively  appropriated  to  the  purpose  for  which  the  Insti- 
tution was  established;  and  if  the  said  Institution  shall  at 
any  time  cease  to  exist,  the  real  estate  of  said  corporation 
shall  be  held  as  surety  to  this  State  for  the  amount  so  granted,  and 
may  be  sold  under  the  direction  of  this  Legislature,  for  the  purpose 
of  raising  such  amount,  and  the  said  real  estate  shall  at  no  time  be 
sold  by  said  Trustees,  without  the  consent  of  this  Legislature. 

"Approved  Nov.  i,  1843." 

At  a  meeting  of  the  Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum,  on  the 
8th  day  of  December,  1843.     Present  all  the  Trustees, — 

"  Voted^  That  we  will  build  the  west  wing  of  the  Asylum  and 
extend  it  the  same  length  as  the  east  wing. 

"  Voted,  also.  That  the  west  wing  be  extended  north  forty-five 
feet,  and  thirty  feet  wide. 

"  Voted,  That  Dr.  Rockwell  and  N.  B.  Williston  be  a  committee 
to  superintend  the  erection  of  the  building," 

The  current  expense  account  for  this  year  stands  thus  : 
Income  from  board  of  patients,  etc.,  $13,498.61 

General  expenditures,  13,050.15 


Balance  on  hand,  $448.46 

No  changes  in  the  resident  officers  occurred  this  year. 
Number  of   patients   admitted,    one   hundred   and    eleven ;  dis- 
charged, eighty-eight ;   remaining,  one  hundred  and  thirty-six. 


RECORD  OF  1844. 


THE  Reports  of  this  year  were  published  in  full  in  Appendix 
to  Senate  Journal.  The  extension  of  the  west  wing  of 
the  main  building,  according  to  the  plan  decided  upon  by 
the  Trustees  at  their  meeting  December  8th  ult.,  was  this  year  made. 
Into  this  was  put  the  final  appropriation  of  the  State  toward  the 
providing  of  Asylum  accommodations.  The  Trustees  say,  "  We  are 
now  able  to  receive  two  hundred  patients.  Our  accommodations 
are  now  adequate  to  the  wants  of  the  State."  This  conclusion,  so 
natural  to  be  expressed  at  this  time,  did  not  long  hold  good,  as  sub- 
sequently to  be  seen.  There  is  something  in  a  living  force  that 
bursts  the  limits  set  by  solid  walls.  We  see  in  the  development  of 
an  aneurismal  tumor  the  bony  structures  gradually  yielding  to  the 
constant  pulsations  of  the  vital  fluid,  and  so  when  the  walls  of  an 
Asylum  begin  to  feel  the  knocks  of  internal  increasing  pressure,  they 
are  made  to  expand  and  include  more  room.  This  result  will  how- 
ever be  noted  in  due  course  of  time. 

The  Trustees  in  this  year's  Report  cite  some  interesting  cases  as 
follows : 

^' While  we  rejoice  over  those  which  recover,  it  is  also  a  source  of 
much  congratulation  that  the  old  cases  can  be  so  much  improved, 
and  be  made  so  comfortable  at  the  Asylum.  One  was  brought  to 
us  four  and  a  half  years  ago,  a  man  who  had  been  insane  more  than 
twelve  years.  During  the  four  years  previous  to  his  admission,  he 
had  not  worn  any  article  of  clothing,  and  had  been  caged  up  in  a 
cellar,  without  feeling  the  influence  of  any  fire.  A  nest  of  straw  was 
his  only  bed  and  covering.  He  was  so  violent  that  his  keepers 
thought  it  necessary,  and  applied  an  iron  ring  around  his  neck 
which  was  riveted  on,  so  that  they  could  hold  him  when  they 
changed  his  bed  of  straw.  In  this  miserable  condition  he  was  taken 
from  the  cellar,  and  dressed  and  brought  to  the  Vermont  Asylum. 
The  ring  was  immediately  removed  from  his  neck.  He  has  worn 
clothing,  has  been  furnished  with  a  comfortable  bed,  and  has  come 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1844.  67 

to  the  table  and  used  a  knife  and  fork  ever  since  he  was  first 
admitted.  He  has  not  destroyed  three  dollars'  worth  of  clothing, 
bed  and  bedding  since  he  came  to  the  Asylum.  He  has  been  most 
of  the  time  pleasantly  and  usefully  employed  about  the  Institution. 

"The  second  case  is  a  man  who  had  been  twenty-four  years 
insane,  and  for  the  last  six  years  had  worn  no  clothing,  and  had 
been  furnished  with  no  bed  excepting  loose  straw.  He  had  become 
very  filthy,  regardless  of  everything  which  is  neat  or  decent.  Here 
was  a  case  which  required  more  skill  and  exertion  than  to  restore 
a  recent  case  to  sanity.  He  was  brought  here  a  year  and  a  half 
ago,  and  in  less  than  three  months  from  his  admission  he  so 
improved  that  he  has  ever  since  worn  his  clothing  ;  has  been  supplied 
with  a  comfortable  bed  which  he  has  kept  neat,  has  gone  to  the 
table  with  the  rest,  and  used  a  knife  and  fork  ;  and  has  not  injured 
clothing,  bedding,  or  any  other  property  to  the  amount  of  two  dol- 
lars. This  last  summer  he  has  worked  regularly  on  the  farm,  and  is 
peaceable,  quiet  and  happy. 

"  The  third  case  is  a  man  who  has  been  insane  more  than  thirty 
years,  was  sold  to  the  lowest  bidder  for  many  years,  was  caged  up, 
had  his  feet  frozen  so  that  he  lost  his  toes,  and  endured  suffering 
which  no  person  in  his  natural  state  could  have  endured.  He 
was  brought  to  the  Asylum  about  five  months  since,  and  has  worn 
his  clothing,  has  been  furnished  with  a  comfortable  bed,  has  gone 
to  the  table  with  the  rest,  and  has  destroyed  neither  clothing,  nor 
any  other  property.  He  is  a  printer  by  trade,  and  is  now  pleasantly 
and  cheerfully  employed  in  setting  type  for  our  little  newspaper. 

"From  many,  we  will  relate  but  one  case  of  a  female  patient, 
who  is  now  sixty-one  years  of  age.  From  the  statement  made 
by  one  of  her  relatives  we  copy  the  following  : 

"  *  She  has  been  deranged  more  or  less  since  a  child,  and  God 
Almighty  only  Ijnows  the  cause  of  it.  She  was  confined  for  several 
years  in  a  half  subterranean  cage,'  etc.  This  'subterranean  cage' 
was  nothing  more  or  less  than  a  cave,  dug  into  the  side  of  a  hill  near 
the  house,  and  straw  thrown  in  for  a  bed,  and  no  warmth  admitted 
except  what  was  received  from  the  sun.  We  forbear  to  mention 
other  particulars.  She  has  been  with  us  more  than  three  years,  and 
since  the  first  three  months  has  constantly  assisted  the  nurse  in  the 
performance  of  her  duty.  Since  the  first  week  she  has  been  at  large 
in  the  halls,  has  been  furnished  with  a  comfortable  bed,  and  has 
taken  her  food  at  the  table  with  the  rest.  She  is  now  regularly 
employed  in  assisting  the  nurse,  and  in  mending  the  clothing  of 
other  patients." 


68  ANNALS    OF    THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

I  quote  these  individual  histories  with  peeuHar  pleasure,  illustrat- 
ing as  they  do  common  phases  of  chronic  insanity,  and  confirming 
what  may  be  done  to  improve  even  hopelessly  insane  persons,  by 
judicious  system,  changed  environment,  and  the  substitution  of  a 
vicarious  will  power  for  that  lost  to  the  individual  beyond  recall. 

In  concluding,  the  Trustees  again  say :  "  We  rejoice  that  the 
buildings  are  so  nearly  finished,  that  we  shall  never  have  occasion 
hereafter  to  ask  the  Legislature  for  funds  for  their  completion  ;  and 
that  our  accommodations  are  sufficiently  extensive  for  all  the  insane 
of  this  State  who  may  apply  for  admission.  And  while  the  insane 
poor  of  this  State  suffer  such  an  immense  amount  of  unmitigated, 
undiluted  misery,  will  not  the  Legislature  make  suitable  provision  for 
their  care?"  This  last  appeal,  to  make  practicable  the  provision 
for  them  already  made,  was  responded  to  as  will  be  shortly  seen. 

The  Report  of  the  Superintendent  shows  that  ninety-six  cases 
were  received,  and  seventy-four  discharged  since  last  Report,  leaving 
in  the  Asylum  one-hundred  and  fifty-eight. 

The  highest  curative  results  were  reached  this  year  in  the  whole 
history  of  the  Asylum.  Upward  of  eighty-nine  per  cent,  of  the 
recent  cases,  and  upward  of  thirty-four  per  cent,  of  the  chronic 
cases  recovered. 

The  following  comments  deserve  note  :  "  It  is  less  than  eight 
years  since  the  Asylum  was  opened  for  the  reception  of  patients,  and 
less  than  ten  years  since  Mrs.  Marsh's  donation  was  received  to 
found  this  Institution.  The  friends  of  the  Asylum  owe  her  a  debt 
of  gratitude,  both  for  the  funds  she  so  cheerfully  granted,  and  also 
for  commencing  an  interest  in  the  subject,  which  otherwise  might  not 
have  been  awakened  for  years.  Could  she  have  anticipated  the 
comfort  and  relief  which  has  resulted  to  the  unfortunate  from  her 
benefaction,  her  spirit  would  have  rejoiced  in  the  contemplation  of 
the  happiness  she  was  about  to  bestow.  Of  her  it  may  be  truly  said, 
*The  blessings  of  many  who  are  ready  to  perish,'  will  forever  rest  on 
her  memory. 

"  None  but  those  who  have  learned  by  sad  experience  are  aware 
of  the  difficulties  of  managing  the  insane  in  a  private  family.  The 
insane  conceive  that  they  have  claims  upon  their  friends,  and  if  they 
are  not  aided  by  them  in  their  wild  and  unreasonable  plans,  they  look 
upon  them  with  suspicion  and  frequently  with  hatred.  Hence 
the  dislike  and  complete  enmity,  which  they  frequently  cherish 
towards  those  whom  they  had  most  loved.  And  all  the  watchful 
solicitude  and  kind  assiduities  that  the  friends  can  afterwards  bestow 
upon  them,  are  suspected  and  misconstrued.      But  when  placed  in  a 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1844.  69 

public  Asylum  they  cheerfully  submit  to  the  regulations  which 
govern  their  little  community,  and  frequently  become  sincerely 
attached  to  those  from  whom  they  have  received  kindness  and 
attention.  We  have  in  the  Asylum  an  incurable  case  of  a  young 
man  about  thirty  years  of  age,  who  has  been  insane  about  ten  years. 
He  had  been  under  the  care  of  different  persons,  who  had  made  him 
as  comfortable  as  could  be  expected  out  of  a  public  Asylum.  The 
last  year  his  mother  took  him  home  and  had  him  chained  to  the 
floor,  being  the  only  situation  in  which  it  was  safe  for  her  to  take 
care  of  him ;  and  manifested  for  him  all  that  sympathy,  which  none 
but  a  mother  feels,  and  bestowed  upon  him  all  that  kind  assiduity, 
which  none  but  a  mother  could  perform.  But  all  her  kindness, 
attention  and  sympathy  was  misconstrued  by  her  unhappy  son, 
and  his  condition  was  made  more  miserable  than  when  taken  care  of 
by  strangers.  After  remaining  in  this  situation  one  year  he  was 
unchained  and  brought  to  this  Asylum  about  four  months  ago. 
From  the  time  of  his  admission  he  has  worn  no  article  of  restraint, 
has  destroyed  no  property,  has  been  at  large  on  our  halls,  has 
assisted  on  the  farm,  has  associated  with  the  rest,  and  is  now  com- 
fortable and  happy." 

The  income  this  year  from  patients- was,  $14,673.19 

General  expenditures,  14,092.05 


Leaving  balance  on  hand  of  $581.14 

During  this  year  Dr.  Samuel  B.  Low  resigned  as  Assistant  Physi- 
cian and  was  succeeded  by  Dr.  Henry  M.  Harlow. 

Time  of  making  up  Report  changed  this  year  from  October  i 
to  September  i. 

The  Legislature  of  this  year,  in  conformity  to  the  suggestions  of 
the  Trustees  of  the  Asylum  passed — 

"An  Act  for  the  Relief  of  the  Insane  Poor,"  of  which  the  fol- 
lowing is  a  copy  : 

"It  is  hereby  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Vermont,  as  follows : 

"Sec  I.  A  sum  not  exceeding  three  thousand  dollars  may  be 
drawn  from  the  Treasury  of  the  State,  in  the  month  of  August 
annually,  by  the  Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane, 
and  they  shall  apply  the  same  to  the  payment  of  the  expenses  of  the 
insane  poor  of  the  several  towns  in  the  State  at  the  Asylum. 

"Sec.  2.  Each  town  shall  share  in  the  appropriation  made  in 
Section  i  in  proportion  to  the  number  of  the  insane  poor  in  the 
Asylum,  the  expense  of  transporting  them  at  the  rate  of  eight  cents 


70  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

per  mile  on  the  nearest  practicable  route  from  their  respective 
residences  to  the  Asylum,  and  the  length  of  time  they  have  been 
there,  at  the  rate  of  one  dollar  and  fifty  cents  per  week  during 
the  year  next  preceding  the  first  day  of  August  annually. 

"Sec.  3.  The  Trustees  shall  annually  on  or  before  the  tenth 
day  of  September  report  in  detail  their  doings  under  the  provisions 
of  this  Act  to  the  Auditor  of  Accounts,  who  shall  incorporate  the 
same  in  his  Annual  Report. 

"  Sec.  4.  If  in  any  year  the  expense  of  supporting  the  insane 
poor  of  the  State  at  said  Asylum,  at  the  rate  per  week  above  stated, 
including  the  expense  of  transportation  as  aforesaid,  shall  be  less 
than  three  thousand  dollars,  the  Trustees  shall  not  for  such  year 
be  entitled  to  a  greater  share  than  the  aggregate  amount  of  such 
expense. 

"Sec.  5.  The  several  towns  and  other  corporations  in  the  State 
chargeable  with  the  support  of  the  poor,  may  at  their  annual  March 
meetings,  make  and  alter  such  regulations  as  they  may  deem  expe- 
dient for  the  purpose  of  securing  the  benefit  of  the  provisions  of 
this  Act,  which  regulations  may  embrace  not  only  town  paupers,  but 
other  persons  destitute  of  property,  and  entirely  dependent  upon  rel- 
atives not  bound  by  law  to  support  them. 

"Sec.  6.  An  Act  for  the  Relief  of  the  Insane  Poor  approved 
Nov.  3,  1 84 1,  and  an  Act  in  addition  thereto,  approved  Nov.  i, 
1842,  are  repealed. 

"Approved  October  30,  1844." 

Trustees  met  Dec.  2nd,  1844,  and  adopted  the  following  reg- 
ulations relating  to  the  admission  of  beneficiaries  to  the  Asylum 
under  the  foregoing  Act. 

1.  "That  each  town  pauper  upon  his  admission  into  the  Asylum 
as  a  State  beneficiary  shall  be  accompanied  with  the  certificate  of  a 
majority  of  the  selectmen,  certifying  that  such  insane  person  is 
insane  and  a  pauper  of  said  town. 

2.  "And  the  insane  poor,  not  chargeable  to  the  town,  having  no 
relatives  to  support  them,  shall  be  accompanied  with  a  certificate 
of  some  Judge  of  a  Court  in  this  State,  in  office,  certifying  that  such 
persons  are  destitute  of  property  and  entirely  dependent  upon  rela- 
tives not  bound  by  law  to  support  them,  with  surety  also  that  the 
balance  of  their  quarterly  bills  shall  be  paid,  in  case  the  State 
appropriation  shall  prove  to  be  insufficient. 

"  Voted,  also,  that  Asa  Keyes  be  auditor  to  audit  the  accounts  of  the 
former  and  present  treasurers  [E.  Seymour  and  N.  B.  Williston]  and  of 
the  superintendent  [Dr.  Rockwell]  and  also  take  an  inventory  of  the 
goods,  chattels  and  estate  of  the  corporation,  and  its  liabilities." 


RECORD   OF   THE   YEAR    1844.  71 

It  will  be  seen  by  the  foregoing  Act  for  the  Relief  of  the  Insane 
Poor,  and  the  Regulations  of  the  Trustees  conforming  to  its  provis- 
ions, that  a  practical  contract  was  reached  in  respect  to  the  care  of 
the  insane  poor,  between  the  State  and  the  Institution,  explicit  terms 
being  now  for  the  first  time  agreed  upon  for  their  support.  Hitherto 
these  classes  had  been  received  by  virtue  of  State  grants  in  enlarging 
the  Asylum,  but  without  the  definiteness  now  reached  in  respect 
to  provision  for  their  maintenance. 

The  Report  of  the  Auditor  required  under  vote  of  Dec.  2nd, 
1844,  shows  the  value  of  the  Asylum  property  in  detail  as  follows: 

GENERAL  STATEMENT. 

Cost  of  farm,  $2,705.40 

Cost  of  building  land,  3,504.98 

Cost  of  springs  and  aqueducts,  550.00 

Repairs  of  old  building,  3,560.65 

Cost  of  center  building  and  west  wing,  12,399.67 

Cost  of  east  wing,  ,                       7,769.87 

Cost  of  west  wing  extension,  4,654.82 

Cost  of  personal  estate,  6,567.50 


$41,712.89 
Funds  received  : — 

Marsh  Legacy,  $10,000 

State  grants,  23,000  $33,000.00 


Balance  paid  from  current  receipts,  $8,712.89 

The  above  summarizes  the  financial  record  of  the  Institution 
up  to  the  close  of  the  year  1844.  It  should  be  noted  that  an  estate 
of  fifty-one  acres  of  land,  with  buildings  affording  a  possible  capacity 
for  two  hundred  patients,  including  the  use  of  the  basement  and 
attic  stories  for  this  purpose,  had  at  this  time  been  created  and 
furnished  out  of  the  original  legacy,  the  State  appropriations,  and  the 
surplus  derived  from  the  management,  combined. 

Some  important  queries  relative  to  the  rights  and  privileges  of 
the  State  in  the  subsequent  extensions  of  capacity,  here  suggest  them- 
selves, but  have  never  yet  been  raised. 

Does  the  preferred  right  to  admissions,  "gained  by  the  State  on 
account  of  the  aid  rendered  for  extensions  of  accommodations, 
apply  to  capacity  afterward  added  from  other  sources  ?  and  does  the 
security  given  to  the  State  upon  the  real  estate  of  the  Asylum  for  the 
amounts  appropriated  by  the  Commonwealth  in  event  of  its  ceasing 
to  exist,  hold  upon  lands  subsequently  acquired,  unaided  either 
directly  or  indirectly  by  the  State  ?     These  are  unsolved  problems. 


72  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

The  editor  of  the  American  Journal  of  Insanity  in  a  review  of 
the  Report  of  this  year  makes  the  following  comments  upon  the 
terms  at  which  patients  will  be  received,  viz.:  "  Two  dollars  per 
week,  or  eighty  dollars  per  year,  if  the  patient  remain  so  long  in  the 
Asylum." 

''Dr.  Rockwell,"  says  he,  "has  had  much  experience  in  the  care 
of  the  insane,  as  he  was  for  a  considerable  time  assistant  physician 
at  the  Retreat  at  Hartford,  Ct.,  and  we  understand  the  Institution 
which  he  now  superintends  has  been  well  managed.  But  we  cannot 
forbear  expressing  our  fears  that  the  low  prices  at  which  this  Asylum 
has  recently  advertised  to  receive  patients  will  prove  injurious  to  the 
best  interests  of  the  insane.  That  such  persons  can  be  supported  at 
a  low  price  everyone  knows ;  they  are  so  now  in  the  various  poor- 
houses  of  the  country,  but  we  hope  not  to  see  institutions  bearing  the 
high  name  of  asylums  and  hospitals  for  the  insane,  and  erected 
expressly  for  their  comfort  and  care,  degenerate  into  mere  recep- 
tacles for  this  unfortunate  class  of  persons.  To  this,  however,  they 
must  assuredly  come  if  the  price  is  reduced  to  what  it  costs  to 
support  sane  persons,  as  they  will  be  obliged  to  dispense  with  that 
care,  attendance,  etc.,  requisite  for  their  welfare  as  sick  persons^  and 
which  in  all  asylums  ought  to  form  a  large  item  of  expense,  in  addi- 
tion to  the  cost  of  board." 

We  acknowledge  the  force  of  this  criticism,  but  we  believe  the 
critic  did  not  know  or  fully  understand  the  Doctor's  principles  of 
management.  In  fact,  we  know  in  these  respects  he  was  misunder- 
stood by  his  co-workers  in  the  specialty.  The  Doctor  was  true  always 
to  his  convictions,  and  so  strong  in  his  individuality  that  he 
would  pursue  his  own  course  if  it  was  clear  to  his  own  mind,  regard- 
less of  either  criticism  or  censure. 

As  already  remarked  Dr.  Rockwell  had  some  years'  experience  in 
the  care  of  the  insane  before  he  was  called  to  superintend  the  Ver- 
mont Asylum. 

This  experience  taught  him  that  a  very  large  percentage  of 
the  insane  requiring  asylum  care,  are  chronic  cases  not  demanding 
medical  treatment,  and  he  was  likewise  firmly  impressed,  as  the 
preceding  record  shows,  with  the  value  of  occupation  as  a  means  of 
treatment,  and  with  a  belief  that  by  judicious  pains  the  labor  of  this 
large  class  could  be  turned  to  some  practical  advantage,  by  way  of 
reducing  to  some  extent  the  actual  expenses  of  their  care. 

Add  to  these  practical  convictions,  the  necessity  in  those  early 
days  of  low  rates  as  an  inducement  to  friends  to  give  the  insane 
member  at  least  a  trial  of  asylum  treatment,   in  a  State  in  which 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1844.  73 

every  dollar  was  a  hard-earned  one,  it  is  not  difficult  to  comprehend 
the  motives,  if  we  fail  to  appreciate  the  wisdom,  of  the  course  he 
adopted  in  this  resi)ect,  and  which  was  at  variance  with  the  more 
liberal  policy  indicated  in  the  comments  quoted,  which  was 
adopted  in  some  other  States.  This  much  may  certainly  with  justice 
be  conceded. 

The  cost  of  the  extension  made  to  the  west  wing  this  year  was 
$4,654.82,  as  per  summary,  page  71. 


RECORD  OF  1845. 


THIS  year  may  be  said  to  begin  a  new  epoch  in  the  history  of  the 
Asylum.     Hitherto  it  has  been  conducted  after  the  manner 
of  a  proprietary  estabHshment.     Henceforth  it  takes  on  the 
character  of  a  public  institution. 

Its  relation  to  the  State  is  now  clearly  defined,  its  obligation 
to  receive  the  resident  insane  poor  is  recognized,  and  definite  rates 
for  their  support  are  agreed  upon.  By-laws  and  regulations  for  the 
government  of  its  employes  are  now  adopted,  and  henceforth  become 
the  internal  organic  law. 

The  pioneer  stage  in  its  development  has  now  been  passed.  *  Its 
management  continues  vested  in  its  Board  of  Trustees,  as  provided 
in  the  will  of  Mrs.  Marsh  ;  but  the  State  enjoys  the  preferred  right  to 
its  benefits. 

It  seems  now  to  have  been  determined  to  ask  no  further  assist- 
ance from  the  Legislature.  The  experience  of  the  preceding  eight 
years  has  demonstrated  the  possibility  of  making  the  Institution  self- 
sustaining,  and  by  careful  management,  self-creative  in  the  future. 

A  confidence  in  the  success  of  the  enterprise  at  this  time  is 
manifested  in  the  first  act  of  the  Board  at  the  beginning  of  this  year, 
as  here  chronicled  : — 

"January  8th,  1845. 

"  Trustees  met,  all  but  Mr.  Seymour  present. 

"  Voted,  That  we  will  enlarge  the  building  the  ensuing  season, 
by  extending  the  east  wing  north  forty-five  feet  and  thirty  feet  wide, 
thus  making  it  symmetrical  with  the  west  wing,  an4  also  to  build 
from  said  wing  east  seventy-two  feet,  and  thirty-two  feet  wide. 

"  Voted,  That  N.  B.  Williston  and  Dr.  Rockwell  be  a  committee 
to  superintend  said  building." 

On  the  I  St  of  August,  "Trustees  met  at  the  Bank  agreeably 
to  notice,  Mr.  Williston  absent. 

"  Voted,  That  Asa  Keyes  and  Samuel  Clark  be  a  committee 
to  draught  and  report  a  Code  of  By-Laws  for  the  government  of  the 
Asylum." 


RECORD   OF   THE   YEAR    1845.  *         75 

August  15,  "  Trustees  met  at  Bank,  and  the  committee  appointed 
at  the  last  meeting  reported  a  Code  of  By-Laws,  and  after  reading 
and  discussing  the  same  at  length,  they  were  referred  to  the  Superin- 
tendent, and  the  further  consideration  thereof  continued  till  the  first 
Monday  in  September." 

September  ist,  "Trustees  met  at  the  Asylum,  and  after  discussing 
the  By-Laws  reported — 

"  Voted,  (Mr.  Seymour  being  absent)  That  the  further  considera- 
tion thereof  be  postponed  till  the  first  Monday  in  October. 

"The  Trustees  then  visited  the  patients  in  the  several  wards  of 
the  Institution,  and  found  all  things  in  good  order."  . 

Trustees  met  again  on  September  23rd. 

"  Adopted  their  Annual  Report  to  the  Legislature  and  their 
Report  to  the  Auditor  on  the  insane  poor ;  also  read  and  approved 
the  Superintendent's  Report,  and  transmitted  said  Reports  to  the 
Auditor  of  Accounts  at  Woodstock,  according  to  the  Statute  provided 
in  this  case." 

The  Reports  of  this  year  cover  but  eleven  months,  being  made 
up  to  August  ist,  in  conformity  with  the  Act  of  October  30,  1844, 
requiring  these  in  future  to  be  incorporated  in  the  State  Auditor's 
Report. 

The  Trustees  report  great  pressure  of  applicants  the  past  year,  as 
a  result  of  the  Act  for  the  Relief  of  the  Insane  Poor  of  the  previous 
year,  one  hundred  and  thirty-seven  beneficiaries  having  shared  in 
the  appropriation,  which,  however,  covered  but  about  three-fifths 
of  their  expense  the  past  year. 

To  meet  this  influx  of  new  applicants,  which  was  foreseen  by  the 
managers,  was  the  occasion  of  their  early  action  toward  the 
further  enlargement  of  the  buildings,  already  recorded. 

The  policy  determined  upon  at  this  epoch  was  the  result  of 
careful  consideration,  as  appears  in  this  Report. 

"  It  was  desirable  that  sufficient  accommodations  should  be  pro- 
provided  for  as  large  a  number  as  could  well  be  taken  care  of,  in 
order  that  the  expenses  for  each  patient  might  be  diminished  and 
brought  within  the  means  of  his  friends ;  on  the  other  hand,  caution 
was  necessary  lest  the  number  of  patients  should  be  so  large  that 
each  one  should  not  receive  his  proper  share  of  attention.  After 
full  deliberation  it  was  decided  that  the  accommodations  should 
be  increased,  and  preparations  were  immediately  made  for  the 
erection  of  new  buildings  containing  about  eighty  additional 
rooms." 

The  Superintendent's  Report  states  that  two  hundred  and  four 


76  ANNALS    OF  THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

cases  were  admitted  since  date  of  last  Report,  and  ninety-nine 
were  discharged,  leaving,  at  date  of  this  Report,  two  hundred  and 
sixty-three. 

"During  the  past  year,"  says  he,  "three  patients  were 
brought  to  this  Asylum  on  a  bed,  two  of  whom  were 
suffering  from  inflammation  of  the  brain,  and  the  other  from 
a  delirium  accompanying  typhus  fever ;  two  of  the  three  died. 
When  brought  to  the  Asylum  they  were  in  a  condition  not  to  be 
returned,  and  we  considered  it  our  duty  to  receive  them  and  make 
them  as  comfortable  as  possible.  We  do  hope  that  none  hereafter 
may  be  offered  who  are  unable  to  sit  up  and  ride  to  the  Asylum,  and 
that  the  lives  of  the  patients  may  not  be  hazarded  by  the  exposure 
and  fatigue  of  the  journey." 

This  experience  of  forty  years  ago  has  hardly  yet  ceased  to 
be  occasionally  repeated,  although  errors  of  diagnosis  are  now  less 
likely  to  be  made,  under  the  present  very  explicit  medical  certificates 
required. 

The  following  extracts  from  the  Superintendent's  Report  are 
noteworthy: — 

"  Our  great  means  for  recovery  are  medical  and  moral  treatment, 
bur  moral  treatment  consists  in  allowing  every  patient  all  the  liberty 
consistent  with  his  own  good  and  that  of  others  ;  in  endeavoring  to 
conciliate  them  by  kindness  and  attention  ;  to  excite  the  sentiments 
of  self-respect,  and  a  regard  for  the  good  opinions  of  others ;  to 
awaken  their  natural  and  social  affections  ;  to  ^ercise  their  judg- 
ment in  useful  employments,  and  to  divert  them  from  their  hallu- 
cinations by  directing  their  attention  to  other  subjects.  Our  medical 
treatment  consists  in  endeavoring  to  restore  every  part  of  the  human 
system  to  its  healthy  functions. 

"  Many  of  the  inmates  of  a  Lunatic  Asylum  are  affected  with  dis- 
eases of  the  physical  system.  Such  as  are  feeble  are  not  only  exempt 
from  all  employment,  but  have  the  most  kind  and  assiduous  care 
during  the  whole  of  their  indisposition.  Most  of  the  inmates, 
however,  are  in  such  state  of  health  that  useful  employment  pro- 
motes their  mental  and  physical  welfare." 

Mention  is  made  in  this  Report  of  a  shoe  shop  in  addition  to 
other  means  of  occupation  previously  detailed,  and  the  benefits  each 
year  derived  from  the  publication  of  the  little  newspaper  are 
again  enlarged  upon,  with  the  following  historical  paragraph. 

"  The  Asylum  Journal  is  the  first  regular  newspaper  ever  printed 
in,  and  issued  from,  a  Lunatic  Asylum.  [In  1837  one  of  the  patients 
of.  the  Connecticut  Retreat,  who  had  been  a  printer,  and  also  an 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1845.  77 

editor,  repaired  to  one  of  the  printing  offices  in  the  city  of  Hartford, 
and  with  the  assistance  of  the  printers  in  that  office,  issued  two 
odd  numbers  only,  of  a  httle  sheet  called  the  Retreat  Gazette. 
He  continued  at  the  Retreat  many  months  after  these  were  printed, 
and  was  finally  discharged  without  being  restored." 

The  financial  exhibits  henceforward  will  be  understood  as 
including  all  expenditures,  whether  for  current  expenses,  improve- 
ments, or  enlargement  of  buildings  or  estate. 

That  for  this  year  shows. 
Income  from  board  of  patients,  etc.,  $17,341.29 

General  expenditure,  16,721.45 


Leaving  balance  on  hand  of,  $619.84 

Included  in  the  income  of  each  year  hereafter,  will  be  any 
temporarily  borrowed  funds,  and  in  the  expenditures  the  repayment 
of  any  such  sums  with  interest.  The  Institution  in  fact  has 
almost  always  carried  a  debt,  it  being  the  policy  of  the 
Trustees  and  Superintendent  to  enter  upon  plans  for  the 
development  of  the  Institution  as  fast  as  they  could  see  clearly 
the  possibility  of  working  out  in  reasonable  time  any  temporary 
involvements  on  this  score. 

The  Trustees  this  year  secured  by  purchase  of  Eben  Wells  (Oct. 
10,  1845)  one  of  the  present  chief  sources  of  water,  at  a  cost  of 
$200. 

"Monday,  October  6th,  1845. 
"Trustees   met    (Mr.    Seymour  being   absent).      The    By-Laws 
heretofore    reported   were  adopted,    and    ordered  to  be    recorded. 
They  are  as  follows,  to  wit: 

"  By-Laws  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane. 

"Art.  I.  The  Trustees  shall  hold  a  meeting  at  the  Asylum  on 
the  first  Monday  of  every  month  at  two  o'clock  p.  m.,  to  examine 
into  the  state  of  the  Institution,  the  condition  and  situation  of  the 
patients,  the  accounts  of  the  officers,  and  to  transact  any  and  all  other 
business  deemed  expedient  when  met. 

"Art.  2.  The  Chairman  may  at  any  time,  and  shall  on  the 
request  of  either  Trustee  or  the  Superintendent,  call  special  meetings, 
giving  each  Trustee  personal  notice,  or  notice  by  letter. 

"Art.  3.  No  vote  shall  be  passed  at  any  meeting  unless  there 
be  three  Trustees  voting  in  the  affirmative.  Provided,  at  a  subsequent 
monthly  meeting  to  which  any  matter  may  be  adjourned,  the  same 
may  be  passed  by  a  majority  of  those  present. 


78  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

"Art.  4.  At  the  monthly  meeting  in  August  which  shall  be 
the  annual  meeting,  the  following  officers  shall  be  chosen  and 
appointed,  to  wit:  A  Chairman,  Treasurer,  Secretary  and  Auditor 
of  Accounts.  A  Superintendent,  also  a  Farmer,  Matron,  Assistant 
Physician  and  Apothecary,  to  be  nominated  annually  by  the  Superin- 
tendent and  appointed  by  the  Trustees.  Provided,  however,  in  case  of 
vacancy  or  in  case  said  officers  shall  not  be  chosen  at  the  annual 
meeting  such  vacancy  may  be  filled  or  such  officers  chosen  at 
any  subsequent  monthly  meeting,  and  the  salaries  of  all  officers  shall 
be  from  time  to  time  fixed  by  the  Trustees. 

"Art.  5.  The  Superintendent  shall  have  the  general  super- 
intendence of  the  Asylum  and  grounds,  the  charge  of  the  patients 
and  the  direction  and  control  of  all  persons  therein,  subject  to 
the  regulations  of  the  Board  of  Trustees.  He  shall  visit  the  patients 
daily,  or  when  he  may  deem  it  injurious  he  shall  learn  their  condition 
daily  or  as  much  oftener  as  may  be  necessary,  and  shall  direct  such 
medical,  moral  and  physical  treatm.ent  as  may  be  best  adapted  to 
their  relief,  giving  the  fairest  trial  to  kind  and  moral  management. 
He  shall  from  time  to  time  give  to  all  persons  employed  at  the 
Asylum  such  instructions  as  he  shall  judge  best  adapted  to  carry 
into  operation  all  the  rules  and  regulations  of  the  same,  and  shall 
cause  such  rules  and  regulations  to  be  strictly  and  faithfully  executed, 
taking  care  that  the  Farmer,  Matron,  Assistant  Physician  and  Apoth- 
ecary and  all  others  employed  about  the  Asylum  perform  particu- 
larly all  the  duties  required  of  them. 

"Art.  6.  Under  the  Superintendent's  direction  the  Farmer 
shall  take  charge  of  the  farm  and  shall  purchase  furniture,  fuel, 
stores  and  other  necessary  articles,  and  shall  present  the  bills  to  the 
Superintendent  for  the  payment  thereof.  By  the  same  direction 
he  shall  hire  attendants  and  domestics  and  agree  with  therh  for  their 
wages,  and  shall  perform  such  other  duties  in  relation  to  the  business 
in  and  about  the  Asylum  as  shall  be  required  of  him  by  the  Superin- 
tendent. 

"Art.  7.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Matron  to  look  carefully 
to  the  female  patients,  to  be  with  them  as  much  as  possible,  to  direct 
the  nurses  in  their  duty,  to  see  that  the  inmates  are  kindly  treated, 
that  their  food  is  properly  served  and  distributed,  and  that  the  female 
attendants  in  all  respects  do  their  duty.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the 
Matron  also  to  superintend  the  kitchen,  the  cooking,  the  washing 
and  ironing,  and  take  care  of  the  clothes  and  bedding  and  see  that 
they  are  always  clean  and  in  good  order. 

"Art.  8.     It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the   Assistant  Physician  to 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1845.  79 

ascertain  and  record  the  history  of  each  case  and  keep  a  diary  of  the 
same  so  long  as  the  patient  shall  remain  in  the  Asylum.  He  shall 
see  all  the  patients  at  least  once  a  day  and  such  of  the  males  as  are 
under  medical  treatment  oftener  if  necessary,  and  report  the  results 
of  his  observations  to  the  Superintendent.  He  shall  look  to  the 
warmth,  cleanliness  and  ventilation  of  the  halls,  to  the  exercise 
and  amusements  of  the  patients,  and  see  that  the  patients  are  prop- 
erly treated,  and  do  any  other  duty  connected  with  the  medical 
department  of  the  Asylum  required  by  the  Superintendent.  He 
shall  wait  upon  company,  give  them  all  suitable  information,  and 
show  such  part  of  the  building  and  grounds  as  are  open  to  their 
examination. 

"  Art.  9.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Apothecary  to  take  care 
of  the  office,  prepare  and  put  up  all  medicine,  see  that  all  prescrip- 
tions be  properly  administered,  and  ascertain  as  far  as  may  be,  the 
effect  of  the  same.  He  shall  perform  the  duties  of  librarian  and 
take  care  of  the  books  belonging  to  the  library.  He  shall  see  to  the 
bathing  and  shower  baths,  shall  keep  the  record  of  the  clothing 
of  the  male  patients  as  they  come  and  leave  the  Asylum,  and  do  any 
other  duty  required  by  the  Superintendent. 

"Art.  10.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Auditor  in  the  month 
of  July  annually  to  audit  all  the  accounts  of  the  officers  of  the  Insti- 
tution, take  an  inventory  of  all  the  property  of  the  corporation,  also 
take  an  account  of  all  the  claims  in  favor  of  and  against  the  Institu- 
tion, so  as  to  show  its  true  standing  on  the  first  day  of  August  annu- 
ally. For  which  services  he  shall  be  paid  a  reasonable  compensation 
to  be  fixed  by  the  Trustees. 

"Art.  II.  That  the  Trustees  shall  from  time  to  time  fix  the 
price  of  board  of  the  patients,  and  no  patient  shall  at  any  time  be 
admitted  for  a  less  price  than  that  prefixed  by  the  Trustees,  or 
by  their  direction,  and  upon  the  admission  of  patients  to  the  Asylum 
good  security  shall  in  all  cases  be  required. 

"Art.  12.  No  moneys  shall  be  expended  or  debts  contracted, 
except  for  the  ordinary  expenses  of  the  establishment,  unless  directed 
by  the  Trustees. 

Art.  13.  Every  officer  receiving  and  paying  out  the  moneys  of 
the  Institution  shall  keep  a  regular  cash  account  of  all  moneys 
received  and  from  whom  received,  and  all  moneys  paid  out  and 
to  whom  paid  and  for  what  purpose  paid,  which  amount  shall  be 
laid  before  the  Trustees  at  their  meeting  for  their  examination. 

"Art.  14.  The  Superintendent  shall  lay  before  the  Trustees  at 
each  monthly  meeting  a  statement  of  the  number  of  patients  received, 


8o  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

discharged  or  deceased  during  the  month  previous,  stating  the  name 
and  place  of  residence  of  each  patient,  the  time  of  their  admission  with 
the  security  taken  therefor,  the  time  of  their  discharge  or  decease,  and 
if  discharged,  whether  cured  or  improved  or  not." 

"After  adopting  the  foregoing  By-Laws  and  examining  into 
the  concerns  of  the  Institution,  and  condition  of  the  patients,  made 
choice  of  the  following  officers  until  the  next  annual  meeting,  to 
wit : 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Samuel   Clark,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
Asa  Keyes,  Secretary. 
Asa  Keyes,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent. 

Farmer. 

Deborah  K.  Baker,  Matron, 
David  T.  Brown,  Assistant  Physician. 
Henry  M.  Booth,  Apothecary.* 
"  Voted,      To    send    a   special    agent    to    the    Legislature    the 
approaching  session,  to  attend  to  the  interests  of  the  Asylum  before 
the  Legislature,  and  to  procure  an  increase  of  the  appropriation  for 
the  insane  poor,  and  Asa  Keyes  was  chosen  such  special  agent." 

The  Legislature  of  this  year  passed  the  following  Act,  which  was 
approved  October  27th,  1845,  and  remained  without  alteration  for 
near  thirty  years.  It  is  introduced  as  showing  that  the  annual  sum 
drawn  from  the  State  during  this  period,  was  for  the  care  of  the 
insane  poor  and  no  other  purpose ;  many  seeming  to  entertain 
the  impression  that  it  was  devoted  to  providing  additional  room 
at  the  Asylum,  as  the  grants  previously  referred  to,  except  the  last, 
were. 

"An  Act  in  addition  to  an  Act  for  the  Relief  of  the  Insane  Poor, 
approved  Oct.  30,  1844. 

"  It  is  hereby  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Vermont,  as  follows, — 

"Sec.  I.  Instead  of  the  sum  mentioned  in  the  first  section  of 
An  Act  for  the  Relief  of  the  Insane  Poor,  approved  October  30, 
1844,  the  Trustees  of  the  Vermont   Asylum  for  the    Insane    may 

*The  salary  of  the  farmer,  at  this  date  was  fixed  at  $300  per  annum  ;  that  of  the 
matron  at  $208;  of  the  assistant  physician  at  $300;  that  of  the  apothecary,  board 
and  tuition. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1845.  81 

annually  in  the  month  of  August  draw  from  the  Treasury  of  this 
State  the  sum  of  Five  Thousand  Dollars,  for  the  purposes  expressed 
in  and  subject  to  the  provisions  of  said  Act. 

"Sec.  2.  There  shall  be  annually  appointed  by  the  Legislature 
a  Commissioner  of  the  Insane,  whose  duty  it  shall  be,  monthly, 
or  oftener  if  need  be,  to  visit  said  Asylum,  with  the  Trustees  or 
alone,  to  examine  into  the  condition  of  the  Institution,  the  receipts 
and  expenditures,  the  management  of  the  patients,  and  the  general 
welfare  of  the  Asylum,  and  to  make  report  thereon  annually  to 
the  Legislature." 

This  last  section  was  suggested  by  Dr.  Rockwell.  While  it  did 
not  clothe  this  official  with  any  authority  in  the  management,  which 
from  the  beginning  was  vested  solely  in  the  Board  of  Trustees, 
it  gave  the  State  an  agent  with  free  visitorial  power,  to  observe 
and  report  to  the  Legislature  each  year,  whether  or  not  the  wards  or 
beneficiaries  of  the  State  were  properly  cared  for,  and  whether  the 
money  appropriated  toward  their  support  at  the  Institution  was 
or  was  not  applied  in  the  manner  provided  and  designed. 

This  office  of  Commissioner  of  the  Insane  was  continued 
for  thirty-three  years,  when  it  was  abolished  and  a  Board  of 
Supervisors  of  the  Insane  created,  with  some  additional  powers. 

The  cost  of  the  extension  of  the  east  wing  effected  this  year  was 
$6,325.66. 


RECORD  OF  1846. 


THE  Trustees'  Report  of  this  year  contains  the  following  opening 
paragraph  : 
"At  the  time  of  making  our  last  Report  we  were  suffering 
for  want  of  sufficient  accommodations  for  our  patients.  The  build- 
ings, which  were  then  in  course  of  erection,  have  since  been  com- 
pleted, and  we  rejoice  to  state  that  we  have  accommodations  for 
three  hundred  patients ;  as  large  a  number  as  we  think  can  be  prop- 
erly taken  care  of  in  one  Asylum." 

The  superintendent  reports  one  hundred  and  ninety-seven  admis- 
sions, and  one  hundred  and  sixty-nine  discharges ;  two  hundred  and 
ninety-one  remaining. 

Some  remarks  upon  ill-advised  visits  to  patients  deserve  notice, 
and  are  as  true  now  as  then : 

"  Next  to  premature  removals  are  the  injudicious  visits  of  friends 
and  acquaintances.  These  visits  serve  to  awaken  former  associa- 
tions, which  greatly  disturb  the  minds  of  the  patients  and  create 
a  desire  to  return  to  their  friends.  Not  unfrequently  has  the  recov- 
ery of  a  patient  been  retarded  weeks  and  even  months,  by  an  inju- 
dicious visit.  These  remarks  do  not  apply  with  so  much  force  to 
those  cases  which  are  incurable.  But  frequent  visits  of  friends 
or  acquaintances  may  make  them  dissatisfied  with  their  situation,  and 
less  comfortable  inmates  of  an  institution. 

"While  on  this  subject  we  wish  to  be  distinctly  understood.  We 
have  never  refused  the  immediate  relatives  of  the  patients  from 
having  an  interview,  and  have  always  allowed  them  to  do  so  when 
they  have  wished  it.  In  some  few  cases  we  consider  it  advisable  for 
the  relatives  to  see  the  patient,  but  in  most  cases  we  consider  it 
injurious.  We  always  state  our  opinion  candidly  to  the  relatives,  of 
the  probable  effects  of  an  interview,  and  then  leave  it  entirely  to 
their  own  decision.  It  is  left  to  the  discretion  of  the  superintendent 
whether  it  is  expedient  for  any  but  the  relatives  to  have  an  inter- 
view with  any  particular  patient.  The  relatives  often  make  a 
special  request  that  the  patient  shall  not  be  exhibited  to  his  acquaint- 
ances, so  long  as  he  remains  insane." 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEAR    1846.  83 

The  following  shows  the  financial  result  of  the  year  : 

Income,  $23,758.46 

Expenditure,  23,168.05 


Balance  on  hand  August  i,  •    $590.41 

A  purchase  was  this  year  effected  of  forty-nine  square  rods  of 

land,  contiguous  to  the  first  purchased  estate,  for  use  as  a  cemetery. 

This  was  bought  of  Mr.  Addison  Brown,  for  the  sum  of  $92,  and  has 

since  been  preserved  to  that  use.      Cost  of  construction  thereon  of  a 

receiving  tomb  $58. 

The  following  officers  were  chosen  at  the  annual  meeting  of  this 

year: 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Samuel  Clark,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
Asa  Keyes,  Secretary. 
Epaphro'  Seymour,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

William  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent. 

James  M.  Shearer,  Farmer. 

Deborah  K.  Baker,  Matron. 

Francis  A.  Holman,  Assistant  Physician. 

Henry  M.  Booth,  Apothecary. 


RECORD   OF    1847. 


THE  continued  expansion  of  the  Institution  and  increase  of 
patients  had  demonstrated  the  necessity  for  more  land  in 
connection  with  it,  but  the  greater  necessity  of  providing 
buildings  and  water  supply  had  hitherto  precluded  additions  to  the 
estate. 

This  year,  however,  enlargement  of  the  farm  came  under  con- 
sideration, and  at  a  special  meeting  of  the  Trustees,  in  April,  it  was  — 

Voted^  "  To  purchase  of  John  L.  Dickerman  the  wood  lot  and 
pasture  owned  by  him  westerly  of  the  Holbrook  meadow,  of  about 
thirty  acres,  at  his  price,  being  one  thousand  dollars." 

This  piece  of  land  was  located  a  mile  away  from  the  Asylum  in 
a  north-westerly  direction,  upon  the  old  road  to  Newfane,  and 
was  purchased  principally  for  the  fuel  growing  thereon,  of  which  the 
Asylum  had  great  need.  The  right  to  lay  an  aqueduct  from  the 
Wells  spring,  through  the  farm  of  Newman  Allen,  was  also  this  year 
secured.  Consideration  $40,  and  the  cost  of  laying  the  same  with 
logs  was  $300. 

The  Trustees  in  their  Report  of  this  year  refer  especially  to  the 
purchase  of  the  wood-lot,  as  opening  a  new  field  for  labor. 

"Since  that  time,"  they  say,  "the  patients  have  been  engaged  in 
cutting  the  wood  and  timber  and  clearing  the  land.  We  have 
already  ascertained  that  the  wood  and  timber,  with  the  labor  of 
the  patients,  will  pay  for  the  whole."  "Improvements,"  they  add, 
"have  constantly  been  made  on  the  farm,  which  furnishes  much 
produce  for  consumption  in  the  establishment." 

This  quotation  indicates  a  full  realization  on  the  part  of  the  man- 
agers, that  now  and  in  the  future  the  success  of  the  establishment 
must  rest  upon  the  basis  of  self-support,  and  the  practical  manage^ 
ment  mu.st  be  financially  that  of  economy  and  sagacious  foresight- 
Yet  they  were  not  unmindful  of  the  real  objects  for  which  the  Insti- 
tution was  founded,  as  the  following  paragraph  shows. 

"In  our  regular  visits  to  the  Asylum  we  have  been  gratified  to 
notice  the  neatness  and  comfort  which  prevaded  every  apartment, 
and  the  kindness  and  sympathy  manifested  for  the  unfortunates.     At 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1847.  85 

the  same  time  there  also  appeared  a  systematic  regularity  and  order, 
evincing  a  judicious  guidance,  which  was  worthy  of  all  praise." 

During  the  year  past  one  hundred  and  thirty-five  were  received, 
and  one  hundred  and  twenty-two  were  discharged  ;  remaining,  three 
hundred  and  four. 

The  Superintendent  notes  "That  the  printing  of  the  Asylum  Jour- 
nal has  been  discontinued  in  consequence  of  the  recovery  of  the 
printers,  who  have  left  the  Asylum." 

This  enterprise  deserves  to  be  enlarged  upon.  Begun  in  Novem- 
ber, 1842,  it  ended  with  the  year  1846.  Its  history  is  intimately 
connected  with  that  of  one  of  the  inmates  of  this  early  day  : 

On  the  15th  of  July,  1842,  there  was  admitted  to  the  Asylum 
a  young  man  from  the  northernmost  county  of  the  State  of  New 
Hampshire,  17  years  of  age,  by  trade  a  printer,  four  weeks  deranged, 
and  laboring  under  maniacal  excitement  characterized  by  exagger- 
ated personal  ideas  of  greatness,  dominant  in  which  was  the  delusion 
that  he  was  to  be  a  second  Frankhn. 

This  morbid  exaltation  of  mind  continued,  together  with  other 
deranged  manifestations,  according  to  the  record  for  two  months^ 
when  symptoms  of  improvement  began  to  be  evident.  On  the  21st 
of  October  following  his  admission,  he  had  so  far  improved  that 
he  was  allowed  to  go  to  the  Phoenix  office  to  work  at  his  trade, 
though  he  was  still  in  a  vacillating  state  of  mind. 

On  the  25th  of  the  same  month  he  is  reported  as  "  setting  up 
type  for  a  newspaper,"  and  on  the  29th  he  brought  home  the  proof 
sheet  of  the  Asylum  Journal,  the  first  number  of  a  series,  which  was 
continued  as  a  weekly  production  for  two  years,  and  as  a  monthly 
publication  for  two  years  more,  as  already  stated. 

For  three  months  this  little  sheet  was  regularly  issued  from  the 
Phoenix  Office,  when  its  success  became  so  well  assured  a  printing 
press  was  purchased,  and  afterward  the  office  of  the  Journal  was 
at  the  "White  House,"  the  original  Asylum  building,  on  the  present 
site  of  the  "  Marsh  Building."  For  a  year  this  young  man  was  both 
editor  aud  publisher.  November  i,  1843,  just  one  year  after  the 
date  of  the  first  issue,  it  is  recorded  "  That  he  went  home  entirely 
well, — that  he  printed  it  with  great  ability  for  one  of  his  age,  and 
wrote  some  able  articles  for  its  columns,  and  that  he  had  been  highly 
complimented  for  its  mechanical  execution,  and  its  good  appear- 
ance." 

November  26,  1844,  appears  a  subsequent  entry,  "That  the  Jour- 
nal has  been  continued  another  year,  and  printed  by  the  same 
party,"  who  appears  to  have  been  employed,  at  least  for  this  service, 


86  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

by  the  Asylum.  Exactly  how  it  was  conducted  the  last  two  years, 
does  not  fully  appear  ;  but  the  further  history  of  the  young  man 
does  not  cease  here.  He  was  for  a  time  foreman  in  the  Phoenix 
office,  at  the  time  that  paper  was  owned  and  managed  by  William  E. 
Ryther.  From  Brattleboro  he  went  to  North  Adams,  Mass.,  to  take 
charge  of  a  newspaper,  and  thence  to  Michigan,  where  he  was  iden- 
tified with  the  Detroit  Tribune  and  subsequently  became  editor  and 
proprietor  of  the  Lansing  Republican,  the  State  paper  of  Michigan, 
and  was  the  head  of  the  State  Printing  Firm  at  the  time  of  his 
decease  in  1881. 

At  the  monthly  meeting  in  August  of  this  year  the  annual  choice 
of  officers  was  made,  as  follows  : 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Samuel  Clark,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
Asa  Keyes,  Secretary. 
Election  of  auditor  postponed. 

RESIEENT  OFFICERS. 

Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent. 
James  M.  Shearer,  Farmer. 
Deborah  K.  Baker,  Matron. 
Francis  A.  Holman,  Assistant  Physician. 
Henry  M.  Booth,  Apothecary. 
At  the  September  meeting,  Mr.  Seymour  having  resigned,  Jona- 
than Dorr  Bradley  was  chosen  Trustee  in  his  stead. 

.  On  the  1 6th  of  November,  a  special  meeting  was  called,  when 
it  was  Voted,  *'  That  the  Trustees  will  the  next  season  extend  the 
center  building  twenty-five  feet  in  front,*  and  will  raise  the  roof 
of  the  same  at  some  convenient  height,  say,  six,  eight  or  ten  feet 
in  the  discretion  of  the  committee. 

''  Voted,  also.  To  extend  the  return  wing  of  the  east  wing  exten- 
sion eighteen  feet. 

"  Voted,  That  Wm.  H.  Rockwell  and  N.  B.  Williston  be  a  com- 
mittee to  erect  said  buildings." 

At  the  December  meeting  this  year  J,  D.  Bradley  was  chosen 
Auditor. 

The  financial  statement  shows: — 
Income,  $26,720.09 

Expenditure,  26,445.80 

Balance  on  hand,  $274-29 

*N0TE.  The  extension  of  the  center  building  was  made  thirty-three  feet,  instead 
of  twenty-five  as  per  foregoing  vote. 


RECORD   OF   1848. 


AT  the  monthly  meeting  in   March  of  this  year,  the  Trustees 
Voted^    "  To  buy  the  west  part  of  the  Stephen  Bennett  farm, 
of  about  fifty  acres,  for  pasture  and  wood  lot."     (Situated  on 
the  old  Newfane  road.)     This  was  effected  on  the  i6th  of  the  same 
month,  at  a  cost  of  $800. 

The  enlargement  of  the  center  building,  and  extension  of  the 
east  wing  in  its  northern  section,  were  under  way  at  the  time  of 
making  up  the  Annual  Report  for  this  year,  and  were  practically 
completed  before  the  close  of  the  year. 

The  Superintendent  in  his  Report  for  this  year  enlarges  upon  the 
labor  question,  in  a  manner  that  evinces  the  steadfast  convictions  of 
his  mind,  and  conveys  to  the  reader  no  uncertain  ring.  The  follow- 
ing extracts  illustrate  his  views. 

"All  out-door  employment  in  which  the  insane  can  be  interested, 
has  a  salutary  effect. 

"At  every  Lunatic  Asylum  there  will  be  much  mechanical  labor 
to  be  performed,  such  as  repairing  buildings  and  fences,  making  and 
mending  both  furniture  and  utensils,  clothing,  and  many  other  kinds 
of  work  necessary  for  the  use  and  comfort  of  the  establishment. 
They  give  every  mechanic,  and  those  who  have  a  mechanical  genius, 
an  opportunity  to  engage  in  that  kind  of  labor  in  which  he  takes  the 
most  interest  and  delight. 

*  "  From  all  these  varieties  of  manual  labor  there  will  be  some 
pecuniary  profit.  The  great  benefit  resulting  from  manual  labor 
connected  with  a  lunatic  asylum  however,  cannot  be  reckoned  in 
dollars  and  cents.  Its  advantages  can  only  be  estimated  as  one 
of  the  most  efficient  means  for  the  restoration  of  the  curable,  and  for 
the  cheerfulness,  enjoyment  and  comfort  of  the  incurable. 

"  Where  one  patient  can  be  interested  to  take  charge  of  another, 
the  effect  will  be  highly  salutary  to  both.  The  ways  in  which  this 
can  be  accomplished  are  numerous.  A  patient  with  sufficient  tact 
and  ingenuity,  when  encouraged  by  the  officers,  can  engage  many 
patients  in  this  manner.  This  is  one  of  the  most  beneficial  employ- 
ments in  which  a  patient  can  be  occupied." 


88  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

The  writer  is  well  aware  that  the  latter  assertion  is  open  to  criti- 
cism, nevertheless  it  was  a  rule  of  action  with  Dr.  Rockwell ;  and 
one  method  in  which  it  was  practised  was  in  the  matter  of  giving 
a  parole  for  purposes  of  exercise,  to  two  or  three,  charging  each  with 
looking  after  the  others,  thus  creating  a  joint  responsibility  which 
was  felt  by  all  individually. 

At  the  August  meeting  the  annual  election  of  officers  was  post- 
poned, the  full  Board  not  being  present,  but  at  the  November  meet- 
ing the  following  officers  were  appointed  : 

OFFICERS  OF  THE    BOARD. 

Samuel  Clark,  Chairman, 
Nathan  B.  Williston,  Treasurer, 
Asa  Keyes,  Secretary, 
J.  D.  Bradley,  Auditor, 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent, 

James  M.  Shearer,  Farmer, 

Deborah  K.  Baker,  Matron, 

Francis  A.  Holman,  Assistant  Physician. 

,  Apothecary. 

Voted,  "To  ratify  the  purchase  of  a  piece  of  land  and  water 
right,  purchased  of  Charles  Chapin,  Nov.  2nd,  1848,  for  $150." 

This  included  about  one  acre  of  land  on  the  west  side  of  the 
Newfane  road,  and  just  beyond  the  house  of  Houghton  Pike,  subse- 
quently owned  by  David  Miller,  and  sold  by  him  to  the  Asylum. 

The  movement  of  population  as  shown  by  the  Superintendent's 
Report,  was  one  hundred  and  fifty-six  admitted,  and  one  hundred 
and  forty-eight  discharged,  three  hundred  and  twelve  remaining. 
The  income  was,  $31,295.34 

The  expenditure,  30j975-93 


Balance  on  hand,  $319.41 

The  cost  of  making  the  enlargements  to  center  building  and 
north  section  of  east  wing  this  year  was  $6,485.99. 


RECORD  OF  1849. 

THE  Institution  this  year  rejoices  over  the  extensions  of 
capacity,  and  increased  faciHties  for  performing  the  domestic 
work,  which  were  effected  and  introduced  last  year. 

These  are  referred  to  in  the  Report  of  the  Superintendent  in 
detail,  as  follows  : 

"Our  new  buildings  were  completed  soon  after  submitting  our 
last  Report.  The  increased  size  and  improved  arrangement  of 
the  chapel  is  a  very  good  improvement,  and  furnishes  ample  room 
for  all  of  the  patients  who  wish  to  attend  the  religious  exercises  on 
the  Sabbath.  The  enlargement  of  the  cooking  and  washing  depart- 
ments, and  the  introduction  of  new  apparatus  for  both,  have  greatly 
added  to  the  facilities  and  comforts  of  those  employed  in  them. 

"  The  addition  to  the  north  female  wing  was  greatly  needed,  both 
on  account  of  the  additional  room  thereby  afforded,  and  also  for  the 
more  perfect  classification  of  the  patients. 

"Two  cisterns  have  been  constructed  for  the  purpose  of  affording 
a  sufficient  quantity  of  water  in  case  of  fire.  Each  cistern  contains 
between  eighty  and  ninety  hogsheads  of  water,  and  both  are  con- 
stantly kept  full.  There  is  one  on  each  side  of  the  center  building, 
and  if  a  fire  should  happen  a  good  supply  of  water  would  be  ready 
for  use." 

One  hundred  and  thirty-six   patients  were  admitted  during  the 
year,  and  one  hundred  and  thirty  were  discharged  ;  leaving:,  August 
ist,  three  hundred  and  eighteen  under  treatment. 
The  income  received  was,  $35^^25.09 

The  expenditure,  35,110.23 


Leaving  balance  on  hand  of,  $714.86 

The   following  officers   were   elected  at  the  annual    meeting  in 
August,  for  the  year  ensuing  : — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Samuel  Clark,  Chairman, 
N,  B.  Williston,  Treasurer, 
Asa  Keyes,  Secretary, 
J.  D.  Bradley,  Auditor, 


90  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent. 

Warren  Eason,  Farmer. 

Deborah  K.  Baker,  Matron. 

Francis  A.  Holman,  Assistant  Physician. 

,  Apothecary. 

"  And  the  said  Deborah  K.  Baker  having  declined  accepting  said 
appointment  as  matron,  on  account  of  other  engagements  heretofore 
made,  Abigail  Rockwell  of  South  Windsor,  Conn.,  was  chosen 
matron,"  to  succeed  her. 

One  of  the  most  important  additions  ever  made  to  the  Asylum 
estate,  was  this  year  realized  by  the  purchase  of  John  R.  Blake, 
Sept.  22nd  1849,  of  the  tract  of  land  lying  between  the  main  build- 
ings and  the  village  common,  and  extending  easterly  to  the  Putney 
road,  comprising  an  area  of  sixteen  acres,  since  devoted  to  pleasure 
grounds  and  culinary  garden. 

Jt  will  be  remembered  that  the  original  purchase  of  Nathan 
Woodcock  included  the  "White  House"  upon  the  west  side  of 
the  road  surrounded  by  a  couple  of  acres  of  land,  and  four  acres  of 
the  terrace  in  front  upon  the  east  side  of  the  road,  which  together 
with  that  now  secured  of  Mr.  Blake,  embraced  the  plateau  of  twenty 
acres. 

On  these  four  acres  were  commenced  the  permanent  buildings 
and  already  the  surrounding  area  was  inconveniently  cramped,  and 
the  outlook  from  the  buildings  unsightly  by  reason  of  the  unimproved 
lot   lying  in   front.       The  price   paid  for  this   important   tract  was 

$3,500. 

Forthwith  was  effected  a  vast  change  in  the  attractiveness  of  the 
surroundings.  The  post  and  rail  fence  separating  the  immediate 
Asylum  premises  from  this  field,  stretching  along  the  whole  frontage 
and  within  a  half  dozen  rods  of  the  building  the  whole  way  was 
at  once  removed,  and  much  done  by  clearing  away  all  undesirable 
objects  preparatory  to  opening  walks  and  laying  out  a  garden,  the 
following  year. 

About  one  acre  of  meadow  land  contiguous  to  that  already  owned 
by  the  Asylum  was  also  this  year  secured  of  Newman  Allen  (Oct.  15, 
1849)  at  $180.  Also  a  tract  of  land  of  Samuel  Thomas,  situated 
upon  Chesterfield  mountain  (25  acres)  valuable  only  for  fuel,  at  a 
cost  of  $250.     Deed  dated  September  15,  1849. 


RECORD  OF  i85o. 


IN  May  of  this  year  the  Asylum  premises  were  further  enlarged 
by  one-half  acre  of  land  upon  the  west  side  of  the  Putney  road, 
bought  of  Nelson  Crosby,  for  $ioo. 

Much  was  accomplished  this  year  toward  changing  the  immediate 
environment  of  the  establishment. 

An  entrance  walk  through  the  newly  acquired  field  in  front 
was  made  from  the  street  at  the  foot  of  the  hill,  and  it  was  in  June 
of  this  year  that  the  hemlock  hedge,  bordering  it  on  both  sides,  was 
set  out,  which  has  ever  since  constituted  one  of  the  most  perfect  and 
noticeable  artificial  features  of  the  grounds. 

The  kitchen  garden  was  also  located  at  the  east  end  of  the 
plateau,  where  it  has  ever  since  been  continued. 

One  hundred  and  fifty  patients  were  this  year  admitted,  and  one 
hundred  and  forty  discharged  ;  leaving  three  hundred  and  twenty- 
eight  at  date  of  the  annual  Report. 

Concerning  the  general  course  of  treatment  pursued  the  Superin- 
tendent remarks  as  follows: — 

"  The  same  regard  to  exercise  and  employment  in  the  open  air 
for  our  patients;  the  same  care  for  exercise  and  amusements  in 
the  establishment;  the  same  endeavors  to  employ  everyone  in  a 
manner  best  adapted  to  his  taste,  and  calculated  to  divert  his  mind 
from  its  delusions;  the  same  provision  of  plenty  of  wholesome 
and  nourishing  food;  the  same  attention  to  the  proper  temperature 
and  ventilation  of  all  the  apartments  of  the  building,  and  the  same 
desire  to  furnish  the  patients  with  all  the  nameless  variety  of 
comforts,  adapted  to  each  individual  case,  has  been  pursued  and 
been  attended  with  the  same  gratifying  results  that  have  crowned  our 
former  exertions." 

At  the  annual  meeting  the  following  officers  were  chosen: 

OFFICERS  OF  THE    BOARD. 

Samuel  Clark,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer, 
Asa  Keyes,  Secretary. 
J.  D.  Bradley,  Auditor. 


92  ANNALS   OF    THE   VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

William  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent, 

Warren  E.  Eason,  Farmer, 

Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron, 

Oliver  S.  Lovejoy,  Assistant  Physician. 

,  Apothecary. 

The  income  for  the  year  was,  34,240.12 

The  expenditure,  33^868.93 


Leaving  balance  of,  37i-i9 

In  the  autumn  of  this  year  (Sept.  12,  1850)  a  little  more  than 
three  acres  of  meadow  land  was  purchased  of  Newman  Allen,  con- 
tiguous to  that  bought  last  year,  for  which  $482  was  paid. 

At  the  December  meeting  this  year  it  was  Voted  "  To  have  an 
alarm  bell  to  use  in  case  of  fire,  and  J.  D.  Bradley  and 
Dr.  Rockwell  were  appointed  a  committee  to  procure  and  hang  said 
bell ;  and  it  was  also  Voted^  That  said  committee  be  instructed 
to  examine  every  part  of  the  Asylum  thoroughly,  and  make  all 
necessary  improvements  to  protect  the  buildings  against  fire." 

This  action  was  undoubtedly  suggested  by  the  melancholy 
and  disastrous  fire  by  which  great  loss  of  life  and  property  was 
occasioned,  at  the  Maine  Insane  Hospital  the  same  month. 

A  farm  barn,  one  hundred  feet  in  length  by  forty  in  width,  was 
this  year  built  upon  the  edge  of  the  meadow,  and  a  horse  shed  also 
erected.     The  cost  of  both  was  $1100. 


RECORD  OF  1 85 1 


AT  a  meeting  of  the  Trustees,  held  July  23rd.  this  year,  it  was 
Voted  "  To  bring  the  water  from  the  Wells  Spring  in  an 
iron  pipe  of  three  inch  bore,  and  William  H.  Rockwell  is 
appointed  a  committee  to  procure  this  pipe,  and  lay  it  down.      Also 

"  Voted,  To  build  eighteen  feet  in  addition  to  the  east  wing 
extension;  and  Dr.  William  H.  Rockwell  is  appointed  a  committee 
to  erect  said  building." 

This  work  was  at  once  commenced,  as  appears  by  the  Trustees' 
Report  of  this  year,  from  the  following  quotations: — 

"We  have  commenced  enlarging  one  of  the  wings  occupied 
by  the  female  patients,  not  for  the  purpose  of  receiving  a  larger 
number,  but  for  the  better  classification  and  accommodation  of 
the  number  we  now  have." 

"The  logs,  which  were  laid  a  few  years  ago  for  our  aqueduct, 
[1847]  do  not  bring  sufficient  water;  besides  becoming  defective 
they  require  frequent  repairs.  It  is  thought  to  be  the  best  economy 
to  lay  an  iron  aqueduct  in  their  place.  We  have  accordingly  con- 
tracted with  William  A.  Wheeler,  Esq.,  of  Worcester,  Mass.,  to 
furnish  us  with  5000  feet  of  iron  pipe,  three  inches  in  diameter, 
which  will  supply  us  with  an  abundance  of  that  indispensable  article 
to  a  lunatic  asylum,  plenty  of  pure  spring  water." 

The  result  of  the  action  of  the  Board  at  the  close  of  the  preceding 
year,  in  reference  to  increasing  the  safeguards  against  fire,  is  thus 
given  in  this  Report: — 

"  After  the  awful  calamity  which  occurred  at  the  insane  hospital 
in  Maine  the  last  winter,  the  Trustees  lost  no  time  in  investigating 
the  condition  of  the  Vermont  Asylum,  and  its  means  of  preventing 
and  escaping  the  dangers' of  fire.  The  Asylum  is  located  at  such 
a  distance  from  other  buildings  that  little  danger  is  to  be  appre- 
hended from  fire,  unless  it  originates  upon  its  own  premises.  The 
cooking  ranges  in  the  kitchen  are  so  constructed  and  managed  that 
they  cannot  be  considered  dangerous,  and  while  in  use  are  in  charge 
of  careful  attendants.     The  furnaces  for  warming  the  buildings  are 


94  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

so  constructed  as  to  prevent  any  danger.  The  furnace  chambers, 
and  the  smoke  and  warm  air  flues  are  built  entirely  of  brick,  and 
plastered  on  both  sides.  There  is  no  wood-work  of  any  description 
which  is  connected  with  them.  The  partitions  of  all  the  rooms 
occupied  by  the  patients  are  entirely  of  brick,  on  which  the  plastering 
is  done,  and  no  wooden  framing  or  lathing  is  used.  If,  however, 
a  fire  should  be  discovered  in  any  part  of  the  establishment,  it  is 
believed  it  would  be  extinguished  with  very  little  delay.  We  have 
two  cisterns,  one  oh  each  side  of  the  center  building,  which  always 
contains  more  than  10,000  gallons  of  water.  We  have  also  a  reser- 
voir supplied  by  springs,  elevated  nearly  one  hundred  feet  above  the 
site  of  the  Asylum,  which  constantly  supplies  three  cisterns,  each 
of  which  contains  nearly  500  gallons,  which  are  placed  in  different 
parts  of  the  attic  story.  From  these  cisterns,  water  is  conveyed 
in  pipes  to  every  part  of  the  building,  and  is  delivered  by  faucets  in 
every  hall,  so  that  immediate  access  can  be  had  to  it  all  times.  Fire 
proof  iron  doors  are  placed  at  every  avenue  between  the  center 
building  and  the  wings,  to  prevent  fire  extending  from  one  to  the 
other.  A  bell  of  sufficient  size  has  been  placed  upon  one  of  the 
buildings  to  give  the  alarm,  and  is  never  to  be  rung  except  in  the 
event  of  fire.  We  are  sufficiently  removed  fr^m  the  village  to  be 
out  of  danger  by  fire  from  its  buildings,  still  we  are  near  enough 
to  receive  at  the  shortest  notice,  the  services  of  a  well  organized  and 
efficient  fire  department,  and  the  active  cooperation  of  a  public 
spirited  people.  With  all  these  resources  at  hand,  the  Trustees  are 
of  the  opinion  that  the  Asylum  is  so  secured  against  fire  as  to  remove 
any  reasonable  doubt.  The  buildings  are  so  constructed  that  in 
event  of  fire  there  would  be  no  difficulty  in  removing  the  patients." 

The  Superintendent's  Report  shows  that  one  hundred  and  thirty- 
seven  patients  were  admitted,  and  one  hundred  and  thirty  were  dis- 
charged; three  hundred  and  thirty-five  being  inmates,  at  this  date. 

An  epidemic  of  dysentery  this  year  is  chronicled  which  prevailed 
during  the  months  of  August  and  September,  1850: 

"  Ninety-three  patients  were  attacked  by  this  disease,  of  whom 
sixteen  died.  Of  these  nearly  all  were  old  and  incurable  cases,  and 
many  of  them  had  previously  suffered  from  exhausting  bodily  infirm- 
ity. Besides  these  nearly  all  of  our  attendants  and  assistants  were 
attacked  by  the  same  disease,  all  of  whom  recovered.  The  fidelity, 
kindness  and  devotion  with  which  they  performed  their  duties  during 
the  prevalence  of  this  epidemic,  are  worthy  of  all  praise." 

The  following  remarks  relative  to  committals  are  made  by  Dr. 
Rockwell,  and  have  noteworthy  merit: — 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEAR    1851.  95 

"  There  is  one  class  of  cases  especially  which  are  frequently  sent 
too  early  to  a  lunatic  asylum.  I  mean  that  of  puerperal  cases.  We 
have  repeatedly  had  women  brought  to  the  asylum  in  less  than  two 
weeks  from  their  accouchment.  Some  of  them  have  recovered  very 
soon,  but  would  probably  have  recovered  as  well  had  they  remained 
at  home.  Others  have  died,  apparently  from  exhaustion,  who  might 
have  recovered  had  it  not  been  for  the  exposure  and  fatigue  of  the 
journey." 

The  election  of  officers  at  the  annual  meeting  was  postponed 
to  the  following  month. 

The  following  were  then  chosen: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Samuel  Clark,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
Asa  Keyes,  Secretary. 
J.  D.  Bradley,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

William  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent. 

Warren  E.  Eason,  Farmer. 

Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 

Oliver  S.  Lovejoy,  Assistant  Physician. 

,  Apothecary. 

The  income  this  year  was,  $35,423.54 

The  expenditure,  34,349.66 


Balance  at  date  of  Report,  $1,073.88 

The  cost  of  the  iron  aqueduct  pipe  was  $1,436.04.  The  addition 
to  the  east  wing  extension  was  $2,000. 

Obligations  are  this  year  accredited  to  E.  Weston,  Esq.,  of  Bos- 
ton for  ''some  elegant  castings  for  a  fountain,"  which  were  put 
into  use  the  following  year. 


RECORD  OF  i852, 


AT  the  January  meeeting  of  this  year,  ''Samuel  Clark,  [the  first 
of  the  original  Trustees]  appeared  and  resigned  the  said 
trust,  on  account  of  his  age  and  ill  health,  and  thereupon  the 
other  three  Trustees  proceeded  to  the  choice  of  a  chairman,  when 
Asa  Keyes  was  duly  elected.  And  the  Board  then  proceeded  to 
elect  a  Trustee  to  fill  the  vacancy  occasioned  by  the  resignation  of 
Samuel  Clark,  and  the  ballots  being  taken  and  counted,  Frederick 
Holbrook  of  said  Brattleboro  was  unanimously  elected,  and  being 
notified  and  called  in,  accepted  the  trust." 

At  the  February  meeting  the  Board  passed  the  following  vote: 
"That  we  build  a  building  the  coming  season,  for  a  laundry  and 
wash  room,  and  Dr.  Wm.  H.  Rockwell  is  appointed  a  committee  to 
superintend  the  erection  thereof." 

Of  this,  the  Trustees  say  in  their  Report,  "This  season  we  have 
corrected  one  mistake  in  the  original  construction  of  the  main  build- 
ing. The  wash-room  was  originally  situated  in  the  basement,  and 
the  steam  from  that  room  was  diffused  throughout  the  establishment. 
The  consequences  of  this  state  of  things  may  be  easily  imagined. 
To  prevent  these  evils  a  separate  building  has  just  been  erected  for 
a  wash-house,  drying-room  and  laundry,  and  is  now  occupied  for 
that  purpose.  We  have  erected  an  adjoining  building  for  the  boiler 
for  generating  steam  for  the  wash-room." 

This  building  was  erected  in  the  rear  of  the  east  wing,  having  a 
corner  connection  with  the  north  section  of  the  east  wing  extension, 
was  thirty-six  feet  long,  by  thirty-two  wide,  parallel  with,  and  fifty 
feet  back  of  the  east  wing,  a  court  being  enclosed  thereby  on 
three  sides,  in  the  rear  of  the  main  line  of  the  buildings  east  of  the 
center.  The  cost  of  this  with  machinery  and  fixtures  was  $4000; 
and  was  one  of  the  much  needed  provisions,  as  may  be  inferred 
by  the  comments  of  the  Trustees  quoted. 

The  Superintendent  reports  the  reception  of  one  hundred  and 
sixty-one  patients,  the  discharge  of  one  hundred  and  forty-five, 
and  consequent  retention  of  three  hundred  and  fifty-one,  since  the 
last  official  showing. 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEAR    1852.  97 

The  Institution  has  been  over  fifteen  years  in  successful  opera- 
tion, but  now  begins  to  be  foreshadowed  some  of  the  perplexities 
incident  to  multiplied  years,  and  peculiar  to  the  management  of  such 
establishments.  Since  the  opening  near  two  thousand  cases,  have 
been  treated  here,  and  it  could  hardly  be  expected  that  some 
individual  grievances  should  not  have  arisen.  Dr.  Rockwell  very 
truthfully  observes : 

"  Most  of  our  patients  who  recover,  cherish  the  kindest  feelings 
towards  those  who  have  assisted  in  their  recovery.  Many  of  those 
who  do  not  recover  indulge  the  same  hard  feelings  towards  those 
that  take  care  of  them  here,  which  they  entertained  towards  their 
best  friends  before  they  left  home." 

The  officers  chosen  this  year  were: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
J.  D.  Bradley,  Secretary 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

William  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent. 

Warren  Eason,  Farmer. 

Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 

Oliver  S.  Lovejpy,  Assistant  Physician. 

,  Apothecary. 

The  income  this  year  was,  $38,290.88 

The  expenditure,  39,^73-9^ 


Leaving  an  indebtedness  of,  $1,383.08 

This  latter  occurred  mainly  from  the  purchase  of  land  of 
Houghton  Pike,  David  W.  Miller,  Addison  Brown  and  Charles 
Chapin,  all  in  immediate  contiguity  to  the  originally  purchased 
estate,  at  an  aggregate  cost  of  $12.55. 

At  the  close  of  this  year  (Dec.  15th)  about  three  hundred  acres 
of  mountain  woodland  lying  over  the  Connecticut  River,  opposite 
the  village  of  Brattleboro,  in  the  towns  of  Chesterfield  and  Hinsdale, 
N.  H.,  previously  secured  by  Dr.  Rockwell,  were  turned  over  to  the 
Asylum  at  a  cost  of  $4,800. 

At  the  Legislative  session  of  this  year,  the  disaffection  intimated 
in  the  Superintendent's  Report,  culminated  in  the  appointment  of  a 
Committee  of  Investigation. 


98  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

The  following  is  the  Report  of  this  Committee  in  full: — 
"To  THE  Senate  an])  House  of -Representatives  now  in  Session. 

"  Your  Committee,  to  whom  was  referred  the  memorial  of  Still- 
man  Morgan,  and  the  petition  of  Samuel  James  and  eighteen  others 
praying  for  an  investigation  of  the  management  of  the  Vermont 
Asylum  for  the  Insane,  beg  leave  to  report,  That  they  have  attended 
to  the  duties  assigned  them;  that  the  Committee*  of  the  Senate 
and  House  joined  in  the  investigation,  and  now  beg  leave  to  join  in 
submitting  the  result  of  their  labors.  A  great  mass  of  testimony  was 
presented  by  the  petitioners  and  also  on  the  part  of  the  Asylum. 

The  principal  portion  of  this  testimony  on  the  part  of  the  peti- 
tioners was  that  of  persons  who  have  heretofore  been  inmates  of  the 
Asylum  as  patients,  and  now  testify  to  what  they  say  took  place 
when  they  were  thus  inmates  of  the  Asylum.  If  this  testimony  were 
to  be  received  without  allowance,  and  fully  relied  upon,  the  Insti- 
tution would  doubtless  be  open  to  the  censure  of  the  Legislature, 
and  unworthy  the  patronage  of  the  public.  But  it  will  at  once  be 
perceived  that  all  testimony  of  this  character  must  be  weighed 
with  great  caution,  and  with  a  wise  and  careful  discrimination.  For 
such  witnesses  testify  to  what  they  believe  took  place  while  they 
were  insane,  and  while  their  minds  were  exercised  with  bitter  hostility 
towards  those  they  regarded  in  the  light  of  enemies — and  as  persons 
unjustly  depriving  them  of  liberty — and  seeking  to  do  them  the 
greatest  of  injuries.  Indeed,  in  some  of  the  cases  which  came  under 
the  observation  of  the  Committee,  it  was  perfectly  clear  that  the  wit- 
ness was  narrating  not  facts  which  had  occurred,  but  the  mere 
delusions  of  his  own  disease.  How  far  these  impressions  thus 
vividly  impressed  on  their  minds  while  laboring  under  aberrations 
of  intellect  are  truthful,  it  must  of  course  be  very  difficult  to  deter- 
mine. Testimony  of  this  character  considered  with  that  of  witnesses 
who  had  never  been  insane,  led  a  part  of  your  committee  to  believe 
that  some  instances  had  occurred  in  which  the  attendants  had  failed 
to  exercise  proper  discretion  in  controlling  patients  when  excited 
and  violent;  or  in  other  words,  that  more  force  was  used  than  was 
necessary  under  the  circumstances.  Your  committee  think  it  would 
be  strange  if  it  were  otherwise.  In  the  management  of  such  an 
Institution  for  sixteen  years,  with  so  great  a  number  of  patients  and 
attendants,  it  would  be  very  remarkable  if  no  such  instances  had 
occurred. 

Your  committee  all  concur,  however,  in  the  opinion  that  the 
patients  must   be  held   under    control,    or   the    usefulness   of    the 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEAR    1852.  99 

Institution  would  be  wholly  lost.  But  it  is  indeed  difficult  to  define 
the  precise  degree  of  force  which  is  necessary  to  accomplish  that 
object. 

Your  committee  did  not  differ  in  opinion  so  much  as  to  make 
it  necessary  to  offer  more  than  one  report  of  the  result  of  their 
investigation,  for  all  concur  in  the  opinion  that  the  Asylum  has  been 
well  managed;  that  its  management  should  be  rather  the  subject  of 
commendation  than  of  censure;  that  untiring  pains  have  been  taken 
to  employ  respectable  and  intelligent  nurses  and  attendants;  that 
they  have  been  taken  from  the  families  of  our  highly  respectable 
farmers;  that  the  sanitary  rules  of  the  Asylum  have  been  well 
cared  for,  and  great  pains  taken  in  regard  to  the  health  of  every 
patient. 

Your  committee  beg  leave  in  conclusion  to  say,  that  in  their 
opinion  the  Asylum  in  all  its  departments  is  as  well  managed  as 
could  be  reasonably  expected;  that  its  usefulness  under  the  present 
worthy  and  skillful  superintendent,  Doctor  Rockwell,  and  the  able 
Trustees,  is  increasing  from  year  to  year  with  their  increase  of 
means;  that  it  is  now  highly  useful  and  honorable  to  the  State, 
and  well  entitled  to  the  patronage  of  the  public. 

Your  committee,  therefore,  respectfully  recommend  that  said 
petitioners  and  memorialist  have  leave  to  withdraw,  all  of  which 
is  submitted  by  John  F.  Deane,  Chairman. 


RECORD  OF  1853. 


THIS   year  opened   with   plans   for  still   further  enlarging  the 
Asylurh. 
At  the  February  meeting  of  the  Trustees  they 

Voted^  "  That  Dr.  Rockwell  be  hereby  authorized  to  build  the 
new  wing,  and  enlarge  the  existing  return  wing,  on  the  male  side  of 
the  Asylum,  on  the  plan  proposed  by  him." 

This  work  was  immediately  taken  in  hand,  and  with  so  much 
vigor  that  the  Trustees  in  their  Report  August  ist  say, 

"  We  have  erected  the  west  extension  wing  this  season,  and  also 
enlarged  the  west  return  wing  [the  north  section]  by  which  about 
seventy  rooms  have  been  added  to  the  Asylum. 

"  These  additions  were  necessary  to  complete  the  proper  propor- 
tions of  the  building,  and,  what  was  of  much  greater  importance, 
to  increase  the  accommodations  for  room,  and  the  proper  classifica- 
tion of  the  patients." 

The  Superintendent  in  his  report  of  this  year,  shows  one  hundred 
and  fifty-nine  admitted,  and  one  hundred  and  thirty-eight  discharged, 
three  hundred  and  seventy-two  remaining.  An  epidemic  of  an 
unusual  kind  is  this  year  noted^  and  stands  singly  in  the  catalogue 
of  annual  occurrences. 

"  During  the  month  of  March  the  small-pox  made  its  appearance 
in  the  gallery  occupied  by  the  better  class  of  female  patients.  In 
what  manner  this  alarming  disease  was  introduced  among  us/emains 
in  some  measure  a  mystery.  A  short  time  before  the  first  case 
occurred  a  patient  was  admitted  from  a  section  of  .'ccxintry  where 
this  disease  prevailed,  although  neither  herself  nor  any  of  her  family 
had  been  exposed  or  suffered  by  it.  We  know  of  no  other  way  in 
which  it  could  have  been  introduced. 

"The  first  case  was  very  mild  in  its  character  [varioloid]  and 
attracted  no  particular  attention.  About  two  weeks  afterwards, 
eight  or  ten  other  patients  were  affected  with  this  disease,  three 
of  which  were  of  the  confluent  form,  and  were  very  severe.  These 
were  immediately  placed  in  a  gallery  by  themselves  [an  attic  dor- 
mitory] attended  by  nurses  who  had  previously  been  affected  with 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR   1853.  loi 

the  same  disease,  and  were  familiar  with  the  proper  kind  of  atten- 
tion and  care  which  they  required.  All  communication  with  other 
parts  of  the  Asylum,  was  as  far  as  possible  prevented,  and  every 
person  connected  with  the  establishment  was  vaccinated.  As  soon 
as  any  new  case  occurred  it  was  immediately  removed  to  the  same 
gallery. 

''  The  disease  continued  with  us  about  ten  weeks.  One  of  our 
nurses,  and  twenty-seven  female  patients  were  attacked  by  it,  and 
only  one,  a  female  seventy-two  years  of  age,  died.  None  of  our 
male  patients  were  affected  with  this  disease. 

"  I  should  do  injustice  to  my  own  feelings  did  I  not  make  honor- 
able mention  of  all  who  were  in  any  way  employed  at  this  time 
in  the  Asylum.  Not  one  abandoned  her  post  of  duty  but  all  appeared 
to  be  actuated  by  the  principle,  that  '  Whatsoever  ye  would  that 
others  should  do  to  you,  do  ye  even  so  to  them.'  May  they  have 
their  reward." 

Great  credit  is  due  Dr.  Rockwell  for  his  wise  foresight  and 
judicious  management  on  this  occasion,  as  well  as  for  his  own  per- 
sonal devotion  to  those  who  fell  victims  to  the  infection. 

At  the  outbreak  of  the  malady  a  panic  occurred  among  employes 
and  their  friends,  who  on  the  impulse  of  the  moment  were  prompted 
and  tempted  to  forsake  their  positions. 

Dr.  Rockwell  calmly  reminded  them  that  they  had  already 
been  exposed  before  the  danger  was  recognized,  but  that  every  pre- 
caution had  now  been  taken;  if  attacked  the)^  would  be  cared  for; 
while  to  leave  and  go  to  their  several  homes  would  be  to  incur 
the  risk  of  spreading  the  disease  broadcast,  and  especially  among 
their  own  families.  This  sober  second  thought  prevailed,  and  the 
result  attested  the  wisdom  of  their  decision. 

During  the  whole  epidemic  Dr.  Rockwell  alone  performed  the 
medical  service,  leaving  to  his  assistant  the  professional  charge 
of  the  non-infected  portion  of  the  household. 

The  following  officers  were  elected  at  the  annual  meeting: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  'J'reasurer. 
J.  D.  Bradley,  Secretary. 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent. 
Warren  E.  Eason,  Farmer. 
Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 
B.  W,  Chase,  Assistant  Physician. 
,  Apothecary. 


I02  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

Income  this  year  received,  $40j305-73 

Expenditure,  41,877.18 


Leaving  an  indebtedness  of,  $1,571.45 

A  piggery  was  this  year  built;  cost  $500.  The  cost  of  the  west 
wing  addition  and  extension  this  year,  was  $8000.  One  half  acre  of 
land,  at  the  corner  of  Chase  and  Asylum  streets,  was  this  year 
purchased  of  W.  E.  Eason  for  $300,  and  thirty-six  acres  of  the  Eben 
Wells  farm  for  $3700. 


RECORD  OF  1854. 


THE  work  of  this  year  commenced  with  the  removal  of  a  Hne  of 
wooden  buildings  situated  in  the  rear  of  the  west  wing  of  the 
main  buildings,  preparatory  to  the  construction  of  more  per- 
manent ones. 

The  Trustees  in  their  Report  of  this  year  say,  "They  have 
erected  a  new  brick  building,  eighty  feet  in  length,  and  forty  in 
breadth,  with  a  cellar  under  the  whole,  the  same  being  divided 
into  various  apartments,  which  makes  it  a  very  convenient  and  com- 
modious store-house."     The  cost  of  this  building  was  $4000. 

"Great  and  permanent  improvements,"  say  the  Trustees,  "have 
been  constantly  made  on  the  farm,  and  especially  for  the  last  two 
years.  The  products  have  greatly  increased,  and  those  of  this  year 
have  far  exceeded  those  of  any  former  one. 

"  It  was  found  there  was  not  sufficient  cultivated  land  belonging  to 
the  Asylum  to  furnish  adequate  employment  for  the  male  patients 
in  the  open  air.  We  also  needed  a  large  increase  of  pasture  land 
for  the  purpose  of  keeping  a  sufficient  number  of  cows  on  our 
own  land.  The  patients  are  generally  fond  of  milk,  and  the  excel- 
lent fresh  article  which  is  furnished  from  the  farm  affords  a  healthy 
diet. 

"We  have  accordingly  purchased  most  of  the  farm  belonging  to 
the  late  Eben  Wells,  Esq.,  containing,  originally,  over  two  hundred 
acres.  We  shall  now  be  enabled  to  keep  a  large  number  of  cows, 
besides  having  some  excellent  land  for  tillage.  The  additional 
employment  furnished  our  male  patients  by  this  means  greatly 
increases  the  facilities  for  their  restoration." 

I'he  Superintendent  likewise  refers  this  year  to  the  great  improve- 
ments made  upon  the  farm  and  garden  by  which  greatly  increased 
productiveness  has  been  realized,  and  says,  "  For  these  improve- 
ments we  are  under  the  greatest  obligations  to  Hon.  F.  Holbrook 
for  the  interest,  advice  and  personal  attention  which  he  has  so  gen- 
erously bestowed  upon  them."  This  interest,  it  may  here  be 
remarked,  has  never  waned  ;  and  through  all  the  subsequent  years 


I04  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

the  development  of  the  resources  of  the  farm  has  been  his  special 
study  and  particular  labor  of  love.  Under  his  direction  the  meadow 
has  been  drained  and  made  to  yield  under  cultivation  almost  all 
crops,  and  land  too  wet  for  ploughing  has  been  brought  into  English 
bearing  grass,  while  the  run  out  pasture  lands  have  likewise  been 
tilled  and  restored. 

One  hundred  and  sixty-three  patients  were  this  year  received, 
and  one  hundred  and  forty-six  discharged.  Three  hundred  and 
eighty-nine  were  in  the  Asylum  at  date  of  the  Report. 

A  balance  against  the  Institution  is  this  year  shown  of  $701.87. 
The  income  being,  $44,492.33 

The  expenditure,  45,194.20 

The  officers  elected  at  the  annual  meeting  were: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE   BOARD. 

J  Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 

N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent. 
Warren  E.  Eason,  Farmer. 
Abigail  Rockwell;  Matron. 
Henry  M.  Booth,  Assistant  Physician. 
The  bulk  of  the   Eben  Wells  farm,    this  year  purchased,  cost 
$5,185.     A  small  piece  of  land  was  also  bought  of  Nelson  Crosby 
for  $90,  which  included  a  slate  ledge,  yielding  suitable  stone  for  the 
foundation  walls  of  buildings. 

It  is  gratifying  here  to  note  that  while  the  Trustees  were  greatly 
engrossed  in  the  development  of  the  Institution  according  to  will  of 
the  founder,  they  did  not  lose  sight  of  their  obligations  toward 
those  who  were  committed  to  its  care,  and  for  whose  benefit  it  was 
created. 

At  their   May  meeting  this  year,    at  the  suggestion  of  Mr.   J. 
D.  Bradley,  it  was    Voted,   ''That  the  several  wards  be  numbered, 
and  blank  interrogatories  be  printed   [as  per  form  furnished]   and 
that  each  attendant  answer  them  each  month." 
The  following  are  the  questions: — 

1.  In  which  ward  or  department  have  you  rendered  services 
during  the  past  month  ?  and  in  what  capacity  ? 

2.  Has  any  violence  or  constraint  been  used  towards  any  patient 
in  your  ward,  other  than  that  ordinarily  incident  to  mere  detention  ? 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1854.  105 

3.  If  so,  towards  what  patient  ? 

4.  By  whom  was  it  ordered  ? 

5.  For  what  cause? 

6.  To  what  extent  or  degree  ? 

7.  Who  were  present? 

8.  What  were  the  circumstances  ? 

9.  Has  any  patient,  during  the  past  month,  used  any  violence 
against  any  attendant  or  other  patient,  or  against  himself? 

10.  If  so,  state  the  circumstances. 

11.  Whether  you  were  present?  and  from  whom  your  inform- 
ation was  derived,  and  who  were  present  ? 

12.  Have  you  known  in  this  Institution  during  the  past 
month,  of  any  misconduct  on  the  part  of  any  attendant  toward  any 
patient  ? 

13.  Or  of  any  neglect  of  duty  on  the  part  of  any  attendant? 

14.  Or  of  any  act  of  any  attendant  showing  a  temper  unfit 
for  the  care  of  insane  patients,  or  showing  a  want  of  the  special 
patience  and  forbearance  which  such  a  trust  requires  ?  If  so,  state 
particulars. 

15.  Has  any  patient  in  your  ward  attempted  any  escape  during 
the  past  month  ? 

16.  If  so,  state  the  circumstances,  and  how  far  the  attempt  suc- 
ceeded. 

17.  Do  you  assume  the  duty,  so  long  as  you  shall  be  connected 
with  this  Asylum,  of  giving  each  month  candid  answers  to  the  fore- 
going questions? 

This  requirement,  thus  instituted,  continued  in  force  for  some 
ten  years,  when  it  fell  into  disuse. 


RECORD  OF   i855. 


AT  the  first  meeting  of  the  Trustees  this  year  it  was  Voted^  "  To 
engage  Jacob  CatUn  as  apothecary  to  the  Institution,  with 
an  annual  salary  of  two  hundred  dollars." 

This  office,  although  created  by  the  Trustees,  it  will  be  noticed 
had  never  been  regularly  filled,  and  was  often  left  vacant  at  the 
annual  elections.  But  the  continued  increase  of  numbers  now  made 
it  necessary  to  fill  it,  and  add  to  it  a  suitable  salary,  as  seen  above. 

At  the  February  meeting  of  the  Board  it  was  Voted,  "That  W. 
H.  Rockwell  be  hereby  directed  to  build  an  infirmary  for  the 
male  department  of  the  Institution,  and  that  said  building  be  made 
of  brick,  and  be  constructed  with  the  greatest  practicable  safety 
against  fire  ;  and  also  one  for  females." 

This  work  was  immediately  entered  upon  and  practically  com- 
pleted during  this  year.  The  site  for  the  building,  in  connection 
with  the  male  department,  was  secured  by  removing  the  rear  wing  of 
the  "White  House,"  and  was  constructed  sixty  feet  long  by  thirty- 
six  feet  wide,  and  two  stories  in  height.  That  for  the  female 
department  was  connected  with  the  new  laundry  building,  of  the 
same  width  and  height  as  the  latter,  and  extended  westward  fifty 
feet,  in  the  rear  of  the  center  building. 

The  erection  of  these  two  wings  seems  to  have  been  suggested 
by  the  epidemic  experiences  of  the  immediately  preceding  years. 

The  Trustees  in  their  Report  of  this  year  say,  "Our  accommoda- 
tions for  the  sick,  heretofore,  have  been  as  good  probably  as  those 
in  other  similar  establishments,  but  in  all  institutions  of  this  kind 
there  should  be  a  hospital  department,  where  the  sick  can  be 
removed  from  all  annoyance,  and  where  the  immediate  friends 
can,  if  they  desire,  bestow  their  kind  attention  and  sympathy." 

In  addition  to  the  work  of  building,  it  became  necessary  this 
year  to  take  measures  for  the  protection  of  the  bank  in  the  rear 
of  the  buildings,  lest  the  foundations  of  the  latter  be  weakened  from 
the  washings  of  heavy  rains,  the  descent  from  the  building  plateau 
to  the  meadow  below  being  some  sixty  feet  in  the  perpendicular 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR   1855.  lo? 

height.  To  secure  this,  a  foot-wall  two  hundred  and  sixty-four  feet 
in  length,  eight  feet  in  height,  and  six  feet  in  thickness  was  con- 
structed, which  still  remains. 

The  Superintendent  reports  that  one  hundred  and  sixty-four 
patients  were  received  since  the  last  Report,  and  one  hundred 
and  fifty-nine  were  discharged  during  the  same  period,  three 
hundred  and  ninety-four  remaining. 

Immediately  after  the  date  of  the  last  Report,  another  epidemic 
of  dysentery  seized  upon  the  household,  and  continued  with  unabated 
severity  through  the  hot  season  of  1854. 

Of  this  Dr.  Rockwell  says,  "When  a  disorder  of  this  kind  obtains 
a  foothold  in  a  building  where  there  is  a  large  assemblage  of  persons, 
there  is  sufficient  effluvia  arising  from  the  sick,  to  vitiate  to  a  greater 
or  less  degree  the  surrounding  atmosphere,  and  unquestionably 
many  persons  are  attacked  who  otherwise  might  have  escaped. 

"To  be  in  readiness  for  emergencies  of  this  kind  in  future,  we 
have  commenced  the  erection  of  two  infirmaries,  one  for  males  and 
the  other  for  females.  By  isolating  the  sick  in  this  manner  the  phy- 
sician can  visit  them  frequently  during  the  day  and  night,  without 
disturbing  others  or  exciting  their  fears ;  and  at  the  same  time 
the  rest  of  the  household  are  free  from  the  exposure  which  must 
otherwise  exist." 

In  this  case  the  provision  thus  planned  proved  analagous  to 
putting  a  lock  upon  the  stable  door  after  the  horse  had  been  stolen. 
No  epidemic  of  any  kind,  has  since  then  gained  a  foothold,  and 
the  buildings  created  for  this  emergency  have  been  devoted  to 
ordinary  occupancy. 

It  may  be  remarked  that  all  the  three  epidemics  now  noted  were 
in  reality  endemics.  They  did  not  prevail  in  the  surrounding  popu- 
lation. Beyond  a  doubt  the  dysenteries  were  of  local  origin.  The 
causes  for  this  are  at  this  distance  of  time  necessarily  more  or  less 
speculative,  but  in  all  probability  they  were  external  to  the  buildings, 
else  each  year  would  have  developed  more  or  less  of  the  malady. 
At  that  time  malarial  influences  were  less  understood  than  now,  but 
looking  at  certain  facts  existing  at  that  period,  in  the  light  of  to-day, 
it  does  not  seem  difficult  to  arrive  at  the  probable  secret  of  these 
special  outbreaks. 

The  sewers  from  the  beginning  of  the  establishment  opened  out 
upon  the  slope  in  the  rear  of  the  buildings,  and  the  sewage  was 
conducted  in  spouts  to  the  meadow  level,  where  was  situated  a 
compost  bed  which  took  up  at  first  the  liquid  discharges,  but  after 
this  they  were  absorbed  by  the  meadow  bottom. 


io8  ANNALS   OF    THE   VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

At  the  time  of  the  first  epidemic  the  meadow  had  not  been 
drained,  and  it  is  remembered  that  the  season  was  unusually  dry. 
The  unusual  evaporation  from  this  stagnant  deposit  undoubtedly 
gave  rise  to  the  development  of  the  germs  of  disease  which  were 
wafted  by  the  prevailing  winds  to  the  contiguous  buildings,  thus 
in  all  probability,  giving  rise  to  the  disorder  therein  developed. 

At  the  time  of  the  present  epidemic  the  conditions  were  similar 
as  to  drought,  but  the  drainage  had  been  effected.  Advantage  had, 
however,  been  taken  of  the  dry  time  to  grade  to  some  extent  the 
meadow  surface,  and  in  doing  this  the  ground  saturated  for  many 
years  with  sewage  deposits,  had  been  broken  and  turned  over  to  a 
large  extent,  hence  setting  free  again  the  germs  to  be  borne  by  the 
same  wind  currents  toward  the  buildings,  to  be  followed  by  like 
unsanitary  effects.  Howbeit,  no  subsequent  like  experiences  have 
resulted,  since  the  sewage  was  thus  provided  with  a  direct  channel 
to  the  river,  and  the  meadow  ceased  to  absorb  and  retain  it. 
The  income  this  year  was,  $49,805.11 

The  expenditure,  50,924.42 


Balance  against  the  Asylum,  $1,119.31 

At  the   annual   meeting  this  year   it  was     Voted,    "To  appoint 

annually  two  assistant  physicians  to  the  Vermont  Asylum." 
Made  choice  of  the  following  officers: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
F.  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent. 

W.  E.  Eason,  Farmer. 

Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 

E.  R.    Chapin,  ) 

H.    M.   Booth,  [  A^^'^'^"' P''y^"^'^"^- 

Jacob  Catlin,  Apothecary. 

At  this  meeting  it  was  Voted,  To  purchase  certain  lands  upon 
the  mountain  side  for  purposes  of  fuel,  which  was  done  at  a  cost 
of  $450,  by  deed  dated  December  28th. 

This  purchase  was  made  of  Dr.  Rockwell,  who  had  previously 
secured  the  same,  and  was  contiguous  to  that  likewise  secured  by 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEAR    1855.  109 

him  in  1852.  Fifty  acres  adjoining  this  was  also  purchased  of 
John  L.  Sargent,  December  28th  for  $210. 

A  wood-house  was  this  year  built  at  the  Marsh  Building  cost,  $400. 
The  cost  of  the  two  infirmaries  was  $5,000  each.     Total,  $10,000, 

It  is  a  matter  of  record  that  Mr.  Keyes  was  this  year  deputed  to 
procure  an  Act  of  the  Legislature  providing  for  the  appointment  of  a 
medical  examiner,  whose  duty  it  should  be  to  certify  to  the  insanity 
of  applicants  for  admission  to  the  Asylum ;  no  statute  heretofore 
existing  relative  to  this  requirement. 


RECORD  OF  1856. 


THIS  year  opened  with  no  new  plans  for  enlargement.  It  will 
be  seen  that  more  than  ordinary  expenditures  and  liabilities 
were  incurred  the  preceding  year,  both  in  new  erections  and 
in  securing  additional  land.  This  year  therefore  it  was  necessary  to 
suspend  fresh  outlays. 

At  the  February  meeting  it  was  Voted^  ''That  the  Superintendent 
furnish,  as  soon  as  may  be,  sufificient  ladders  for  all  the  buildings  of 
the  Asylum,"  and  it  seems  to  have  been  a  year  devoted  mainly  to 
the  current  work  of  the  Asylum,  professionally  and  otherwise. 

One  hundred  and  seventy-two  patients  are  reported  as  having 
been  received  during  the  preceding  year,  and  one  hundred  and  fifty- 
nine  discharged;  four  hundred  and  seven  remaining  August  ist. 

The  Report  of  the  Superintendent  is  largely  given  to  the  discus- 
sion of  insanity,  and  the  practical  bearings  of  its  treatment.  The 
following  quotations  show  its  drift: 

"  However  mysterious  and  incomprehensible  the  operations  of  the 
human  mind  in  the  natural  state,  the  brain,  the  organ  by  which  the 
mind  is  manifested,  must  be  in  a  sound  and  healthy  condition. 

"  Insanity  is  frequently  the  result  of  an  impression  made  upon 
the  brain  by  some  sudden  and  powerful  emotion,  or  prolonged  and 
inordinate  action  of  the  mind.  The  brain  in  such  instances  is 
usually  prepared  or  rendered  liable  to  the  influence  of  such  impres- 
sions, either  from  development  of  a  constitutional  predisposition 
or  from  disease  in  itself,  or  from  sympathy  with  some  other  diseased 
organ,  or  from  debility  in  common  with  the  general  powers  of  the 
whole  system, 

"  But  in  whatever  manner  insanity  occurs,  a  continual  exposure 
to  the  exciting  cause  that  gave  rise  to  it  would  evidently  have 
a  strong  tendency  to  increase  the  difficulty.  Therefore  it  becomes 
the  imperative  duty  of  the  responsible  friends  of  a  deranged  person 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR    1856.  in 

to  remove  him  at  once  from  the  associations  by  which  he  is  sur- 
rounded at  the  time  of  the  attack,  and  to  place  him  in  a  hospital  for 
the  insane,  where  alone  such  diseases  can  be  treated  with  much 
chance  of  success. 

"Although  it  is  very  desirable  that  cases  of  insanity  should 
be  placed  in  some  proper  Asylum  in  the  early  stages  of  the  disease, 
still,  we  would  caution  those  who  are  interested  not  to  bring  their 
friends  who  are  afflicted  with  other  diseases,  or  before  their  insanity 
is  fully  developed.  It  is  no  uncommon  circumstance  to  have  sent 
us  a  case  in  the  early  stage  of  delirium,  and  while  suffering  from 
acute  bodily  disease.  When  they  reach  us  they  frequently  are 
too  feeble  to  be  returned  to  their  homes.  These  cases  frequently 
prove  fatal,  and  death  in  many  instances  is  hastened  by  the  ex- 
posure and  fatigue  of  the  journey. 

"  The  removal  of  patients  before  they  have  had  a  fair  trial  is  for- 
tunately becoming  less  common  than  in  former  years.  From  this 
Asylum  they  are  seldom  prematurely  removed,  save  occasionally 
under  circumstances  which  the  following  case  will  illustrate. 

"  A  young  married  lady  had  been  a  few  weeks  in  the  Asylum,  and 
was  rapidly  convalescing.  When  she  came  she  was  in  a  highly 
excited  state,  and  her  mind  was  filled  with  the  strangest  delusions. 
She  had  now  become  more  calm.  The  delusions  had  nearly  all 
faded  away,  and  she  began  to  be  conscious  of  her  situation.  But 
her  mind  was  still  in  a  very  weak  state,  liable  to  a  relapse  at  any 
moment,  and  the  greatest  caution  was  necessary  to  keep  from  her  all 
extraneous  excitement.  At  this  critical  period  her  husband  came  to 
see  her.  He  was  charged  with  a  common  idea  that  there  might 
be  something  in  his  presence  that  would  have  a  happy  influence 
upon  the  mind  of  his  wife.  We  endeavored  to  dissuade  him  from 
seeing  her,  but  his  mind  was  fully  made  up  to  take  the  risk  He 
found  her  much  better  than  he  expected,  and  she  seemed  better  the 
longer  he  talked  with  her.  She  asked  after  every  member  of 
the  family,  and  said  she  was  glad  he  had  come  for  her.  His  mind 
was  not  made  up  to  take  her  away  just  at  present,  but  she  talked  so 
well,  and  had  so  clear  a  recognition  of  her  past  situation,  that 
he  could  not  resist  the  eloquence  of  her  arguments  and  appeals,  and 
they  went  home  together.  The  result  was  anticipated  by  us.  Her 
mind  soon  gave  way  under  the  rush  of  old  associations  and  new  ex- 
citements, and  she  was  brought  back  again  in  a  worse  condition  than 
at  first.  It  will  be  a  long  time  before  she  will  be  so  near  well  again, 
and  it  will  be  fortunate  indeed  if  she  is  not  a  confirmed  lunatic." 


112  ANNALS    OF   THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

At  the  annual  meeting  this  year  the  Trustees  made  choice  of  the 
following  ofificers: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 
Warren  E.  Eason,  Farmer. 
Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 

Ha 

J.  R  Clement,  f 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  Clerk. 
The  office  of  apothecary  here  ceases. 
The  income  this  year  was,  $53,609.03 

The  expenditure,  -  ^    ■  53,161.59 


E.  R.  Chapin,  ,         . 

Assistant  Physicians. 


Balance  in  treasury,  $447.44 

At  the  September  meeting  the  Trustees  Voted,  "  That  W.  H. 
Rockwell  be  authorized  to  remove  the  building  called  the  'White 
House,'  and  to  erect  on  the  same  site  another  building  made  of 
brick,  and  to  be  constructed  with  the  greatest  practicable  safety 
against  fire. 

"  Also,  Voted,  To  give  a  site  for  the  school-house  on  the  common 
and  move  it  on  the  same,  provided  the  school  district  would  consent 
to  have  it  done." 

The  school  district,  on  the  loth  of  this  same  month,  acceded 
to  this  proposition,  "On  condition  that  the  Asylum  furnish  a  site 
and  build  a  new  building,  of  one  school  room,  to  the  acceptance  of  a 
committee  appointed  for  that  purpose;  the  material  of  the  old  house 
to  be  used  as  far  as  practicable." 

The  work  of  the  removal  and  re-location  of  the  school  house  was 
entered  upon  without  delay,  and  effected  during  the  autumn  and 
winter  succeeding. 


RECORD  OF  185;. 


EARLY  this  year  a  wood  lot  of  fifteen  acres,  upon  the  West  River 
road   in    Brattleboro,    but    disconnected    from    the    Asylum 
estate  proper,    was  purchased   of   P.  B.  Francis   at  a  cost 
of  $300. 

On  the  30th  of  March  the  Trustees  formally  turned  over  the 
reconstructed  school-house,  and  gave  to  the  school  district  a  deed  of 
the  new  site  at  the  corner  of  Chase  and  Asylum  streets,  where  it 
still  stands.  By  this  was  accomplished  the  desired  object  of  freeing 
•the  village  common  of  all  obstructions  to  the  view  from  the  Asylum 
in  front. 

The  Congregational  church,  which  also  formerly  stood  upon  that 
ground,  was  removed  to  its  present  site  on  Main  street  in  1842.  The 
grounds  of  the  Asylum  and  those  of  the  village  common,  being  both 
laid  out  in  walks  and  planted  with  trees,  and  separated  from  each 
other  only  by  a  low  hedge  of  buck  thorn  and  Osage  orange,  along 
the  brow  of  the  hill,  now  gave  to  the  stranger  the  appearance  of  an 
extended  and  continuous  park;  an  effect  alike  advantageous  to  the 
Asylum  and  the  village. 

Land,  small  in  area,  was  also  this  spring  purchased  in  contiguity 
with  the  Chase  street  school-house,  of  the  Misses  Crosby,  for  $600. 

At  the  April  meeting  it  was  Voted,  by  the  Trustees,  ''That 
Frederick  Holbrook  and  W.  H.  Rockwell  be  authorized  to  build  an 
addition  to  the  center  building,  for  the  purpose  of  protecting  the 
records  of  the  Institution  against  any  destruction  by  fire." 

It  was  determined  by  the  committee  that  fire  proof  safes  in  the 
offices  would  meet  best  the  requirement,  and  such  were  accordingly 
procured. 

"In  noticing  the  events  of  the  past  year,"  say  the  Trustees, 
"steady  and  regular  improvements  have  been  made  for  promoting 
the  comfort  and  restoration  of  the  patients. 

"Last  fall  we  removed  the  old  wooden  building  with  which 
we  .first  commenced  operations.  On  the  same  site  we  are  now 
erecting  a  larger  building  of  brick,  and  better  adapted  for  the  pur- 


114  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

poses  of  the  Institution.  It  is  one  hundred  feet  in  length,  thirty- 
seven  feet  in  breadth,  and  three  stories  in  height.  When  completed 
it  will  greatly  increase  our  facilities  for  the  classification  and  treat- 
ment of  its  inmates. 

"  During  the  past  year  great  improvements  have  been  made  on  the 
common  in  front  of  the  Asylum.  The  school-house  and  buildings 
connected  with  it  have  been  removed.  Much  labor  and  cost  has 
been  expended  in  improving  the  grounds,  laying  out  walks,  trans- 
planting trees,  and  otherwise  beautifying  the  grounds,  all  of  which 
has  contributed  to  make  the  view  from  the  Asylum  pleasant  and 
delightful." 

The  Superintendent's  Report  shows  one  hundred  and  forty-seven 
admitted,  one  hundred  and  forty-one  discharged,  four  hundred  and 
thirteen  remaining. 

Dr.  Rockwell  refers  in  this  particularly  to  the  burdens  felt  by  the 
relatives  of  the  insane,  in  the  following  graphic  manner: 

"The  families  of  insane  persons  have  often  an  amount  of  trials 
and  perplexities  to  endure,  and  difficulties  to  overcome,  before  they 
make  up  their  minds  to  remove  their  afflicted  friends  to  an  asylum 
for  the  insane,  that  few  individuals,  besides  those  in  charge  of  such 
institutions,  have  any  adequate  conception  of. 

"In  the  course  of  our  inquiries  into  the  circumstances  that 
may  have  had  weight  in  giving  rise  to  a  disorder  of  the  mind,  we 
are  often  made  acquainted  with  many  sad  experiences  on  the  part  of 
the  distracted  family,  that  are  scarcely  to  be  equalled  in  intensity,  in 
any  other  of  the  numerous  misfortunes  of  life.  None  but  they 
can  know  how  terrible  a  shock  to  them  is  the  discovery  that  one 
of  their  number  has  become  insane.  The  disease  sometimes  comes 
on  suddenly,  following  severe  illness,  or  some  overwhelming  misfor- 
tune ;  but  oftener  its  approach  is  by  slow  degrees,  frequently  giving 
rise  to  no  suspicion  of  its  presence,  until  some  overt  act  forces  the 
sudden  conviction  that  the  past  vagaries  of  the  mind  are  all  eviden- 
ces of  insanity.  The  long  growing  eccentricities  and  irregularities 
of  conduct,  that  had  caused  much  sorrow  and  bitterness  of  feeling, 
and  perhaps  estrangements  between  individual  members  of  a  family 
are  thus  accounted  for,  and  their  hearts  are  filled  with  sorrow  as 
they  reflect  upon  the  unjust  and  unholy  thoughts  they  have  so 
long  harbored  against  an  innocent  relative. 

"  Perhaps  the  trial  is  as  hard  to  be  borne  when  the  fond  mother 
becomes  the  unhappy  victim  to  this  dread  disorder.  She,  upon 
whom  they  had  leaned  in  the  hour  of  sickness  and  trial,  the  center  of 
all  their  affections,  has  become  changed  by  this  mysterious  malady 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR   1857.  115 

into  a  being  strange  and  all  unlike  herself.  The  integrity  of  the 
family  circle  is  broken  by  this  sad  calamity,  and  like  the  affliction  of 
death  it  seems  to  bind  the  remaining  members  more  closely  together. 
They  naturally  resolve  to  spare  no  efforts  to  soothe  their  mother's 
excited  or  perverted  spirit,  and  win  it  back  to  reason  again.  They 
strive  to  anticipate  every  wish,  and  oppose  her  will  in  nothing. 
Above  all  they  endeavor  to  avoid  anything  that  may  irritate  a  sensi- 
tive mind.  Thus  weeks  and  months  roll  on,  and  though  their  efforts 
are  redoubled  with  the  increasing  extravagancies  of  their  insane 
parent  it  is  usually  of  no  avail,  and  the  disease  goes  on  increasing  in 
intensity,  and.  unknown  to  them  perhaps  the  very  sacrifices  and 
efforts  they  are  making  to  allay  the  malady  only  tend  to  increase  its 
force.  At  length  to  her  everything  appears  changed.  The  strongest 
attachments  become  objects  of  suspicion,  distrust  and  enmity.  Her 
husband  appears  cold,  indifferent  and  careless  of  her  comfort.  She 
fancies  the  hearts  of  her  children  are  turned  against  their  mother. 
In  vain  with  kindness  and  caresses  all  try  to  dispel  these  painful  illu- 
sions, with  strongest  arguments  and  appeals  to  her  better  judgment. 
At  this  stage  of  her  disorder  it  is  evidently  the  true  interest  of  all 
parties  to  remove  the  afflicted  person  to  a  hospital  especially  adapted 
and  designed  for  the  treatment  of  disorders  of  the  mind.  But  one 
who  has  no  experience  in  such  matters  would  be  surprised  to  learn 
the  obstacles,  real  and  imaginary,  that  lay  in  the  way  of  such  an 
apparently  simple  act  of  duty  and  interest.  Often  by  the  difference 
of  opinion  among  the  immediate  relatives,  friends  and  acquaintances 
of  the  patient,  through  indecision,  false  pride  and  other  motives,  she 
remains  at  home  until  her  case  has  become  incurable.  ■  After  it  is  too 
late  the  friends  vainly  regret  that  they  had  not  in  due  season 
used  the  proper  means  for  her  recovery." 

The  Report  shows  the  income  to  have  been,  $55j745-43 

The  expenditure,  56,238.12 


Leaving  balance  against  Asylum  of,  $492.69 

The  Trustees  at  their  annual  meeting  made  choice  of  the  follow- 
ing :— 

OFFICERS  OF  THE   BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
F.  Holbrook,  Auditor. 


ii6  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,    Superintendent  and  Physician. 

Alanson  Weatherhead,  Farmer. 

Ab.igail  Rockwell,  Matron. 

E.  R.  Chapin,  ) 

T  P  ri  t   \  Assistant  Physicians. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  Clerk. 

At  the  October  meeting  the  Trustees  Vofed,  "  To  purchase  the 
Prouty  lot,"  so  called,  which  was  negotiated  for  and  secured  of 
Nathaniel  Samson  and  Charles  S.  Prouty,  together,  for  the  aggregate 
sum  of  $2010.     Cost  of  Marsh  building  $10,000. 

Thus  far  the  year  had  been  one  of  unequaled  financial  pros- 
perity, but  it  was  not  destined  to  close  without  a  reverse.  The 
large  farm  barn,  erected  in  1850,  was,  with  all  its  contents,  in  the 
last  month  of  this  year  totally  destroyed  by  fire.  The  Trustees  lost 
no  time  in  taking  steps  toward  replacing  the  same,  as  appears  by  the 
following  record  on  the  second  Monday  of  December : 

"  Fofed,  That  the  Superintendent  make  the  necessary  prepara- 
tions for  the  erection  of  a  new  barn  early  in  the  spring." 

The  village  newspaper  [The  Phoenix]  of  December  12th,  gives 
the  following  detail  of  this  occurrence  : 

"Another  I^ire  in  Brattleboro — More  Incendiarism. 
"Just  three  months  from  the  great  fire  in  September  the  torch  of 
the  incendiary  was  lighted  in  our  village.  About  half  past  eight 
o'clock  on  Saturday  evening  the  large  barn  connected  with  the  Ver- 
mont Asylum  for  the  Insane  was  discovered  to  be  completely  on  fire. 
Upon  immediate  inspection  the  doors  at  the  north  end,  which  had 
been  closed  for  the  night,  were  found  sufficiently  open  to  admit  the 
passage  of  a  man.  As  that  was  the  windward  as  well  as  the  rear 
end  of  the  barn,  the  incendiary  had  selected  it  for  his  ingress 
and  egress.  The  barn  was  so  thoroughly  on  fire,  the  flames  being 
facilitated  by  the  cellar  below  and  ventilator  above,  that  it  was  found 
impossible  to  release  the  cattle  from  their  stalls,  or  in  any  way 
arrest  the  progress  of  the  devouring  element.  Consequently  the 
barn,  which  was  100  feet  long  by  40  wide,  with  about  100  tons  of  hay, 
eighteen  selected  cows,  six  oxen  and  five  calves  were  destroyed. 
The  cattle  were  probably  all  dead  when  the  fire  was  discovered, 
as  they  were  not  heard  to  make  any  noise.  The  fire  was  prevented 
from  communicating  to  the  large  piggery  on  the  south,  containing 
about  one  hundred  swine,  and  to  a  shed  and  corn  barn  on  the  north, 
in  which  was  stored  about  one  thousand  bushels  of  corn,  by  the 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR   1857.  117 

efficient  efforts  of  all  branches  of  the  fire  department.  The  loss 
is  estimated  at  $4,000, — $1,500  each  on  the  barn  and  stock  and 
$1000  on  the  hay.  There  was  $1,450  insurance  on  the  property, 
$850  on  the  barn  and  $600  on  the  produce,  all  in  the  Vermont 
Mutual. 

"  The  next  morning  tracks  were  discovered  in  the  snow,  leading 
from  the  north  end  of  the  barn  up  the  banks,  over  fences,  across 
roads,  through  wood  lots,  and  into  the  street  where  they  were  lost. 
There  can  be  no  doubt  that  the  fire  was  the  work  of  an  incendiary 
or  incendiaries.  What  their  motive  could  be  in  causing  such  wanton 
destruction  of  property  no  one  can  tell.  We  trust  our  citizens  will 
see  the  necessity  of  instituting  a  rigid  examination  into  the  origin  of 
the  fire,  and  if  possible  discover  the  perpetrators  of  such  a  villainous 
deed." 

The  guilty  party  was  ultimately  found  to  have  been  the  author  of 
other  incendiary  acts,  the  motive  for  which  was  believed  to  have 
been  morbid  in  its  nature. 

The  Journal  of  Insanity,  Utica,  N.  Y.,  in  a  review  of  this  year's 
report  makes  the  following  comments  : 

"  In  the  annual  reports- of  his  institution  Dr.  Rockwell  confines 
himself  very  uniformly  to  the  general  statistics  of  the  year,  the 
various  architectural  or  other  improvements  which  may  have  been 
made,  suggestions  in  relation  to  the  admission  and  removal  of 
patients,  and  brief  remarks  on  the  cause  and  treatment  of  the  dis- 
ease, designed  more  particularly  for  popular  instruction.  Very  few 
gentlemen  in  our  specialty  have  a  larger  experience  in  the  care  and 
treatment  of  the  insane,  or  in  the  management  of  institutions  for 
their  reception.  A  professional  connection  of  several  years  with  the 
Retreat  at  Hartford,  and  twenty-two  years  of  service  in  the  institu- 
tion at  Brattleboro  have  given  him  the  possession  of  no  ordinary 
amount  of  practical  knowledge.  Although  he  has  not  deemed 
it  expedient  to  occupy  the  pages  of  his  annual  reports  with  the  dis- 
cussion of  subiects  strictly  medical,  .we  sincerely  tru.st  that  the 
profession  will  receive  the  benefit  of  his  ripened  experience  in  some 
other  and  perhaps  better  way." 

It  is  for  the  reason  that  we  have  no  other  written  exposition 
of  his  views  upon  any  subject  connected  with  psychological  medi- 
cine, that  we  have  gleaned  so  closely  as  we  have  from  his  reports, 
which  contain  the  only  published  evidence  of  his  views  upon 
the  specialty  to  which  he  devoted  his  entire  life. 

At  the  second  meeting  of  the  American  Association  of  Superin- 
.  tendents  of  which  he  was  a  member,   he   was  appointed  to  report 


ii8  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

upon  "  The  comparative  value  of  the  different  kinds  of  manual  labor 
for  patients,  and  the  best  means  of  employment  in  winter,"  which 
he  did  in  a  written  paper  at  the  third  meeting  of  the  Association  in 
New  York  in  1848. 

In  1850  he  prepared  and  presented  to  the  Association  at  its  fifth 
meeting,  in  Boston,  an  article  on  "The  diet  and  dietetic  regulations  for 
the  insane,"  and  in  1858  at  the  meeting  in  Quebec,  a  paper  upon 
"The  general  characters  of  epilepsy  connected  with  insanity," 
which  elicited  a  strong  discussion. 

These  we  believe  to  have  been  the  only  occasions  in  which 
his  views  upon  subjects  of  professional  interest  were  elaborated 
upon  paper,  and  these  with  all  his  other  manuscript  writings  were 
lost  in  1862,  by  the  fire  which  then  destroyed  so  large  a  portion  of 
the  Asylum  buildings  and  their  contents. 

If  we  mistake  not  greatly,  the  points  we  have  thus  dilligently  ex- 
tracted from  '  the  foregoing  annual  reports,  will  show  him  well 
abreast  with  the  specialists  of  his  time  in  his  general  views  and  prin- 
ciples of  management  of  the  insane,  and  in  some  points  standing 
signally  alone,  as  in  respect  to  the  question  of  parole,  more  fully 
noticed  in  the  history  of  the  year  1848. 

In  the  great  practical  result  of  Dr.  Rockwell's  labor  in  developing 
the  Institution,  the  annalist  feels  that  the  Doctor's  professional  repu- 
tation became  to  a  notable  extent  overshadowed  by  his  superior 
administrative  accomplishment.  It  has  been  therefore  his  endeavor 
to  bring  into  the  record  each  year,  so  far  as  possible,  those  proofs 
of  sound  professional  theories  and  skilful  medical  practice,  of  which 
there  are  ample  evidences,  and  which  the  writer  personally  knows 
he  possessed  in  no  ordinary  degree.  This  point  certainly  calls  for 
recognition,  all  the  more  from  the  fact  that  it  was  never  made  prom- 
inent by  himself. 


RECORD    OF    i858. 


IN  February  of  this  year,  a  small  purchase  of  land  was  made 
of  Shepard  Rice,  [thirty  square  rods],  giving  a  connection 
between  the  "  Prouty  lot,"  last  year  purchased,  and  lands  pre- 
viously owned  by  the  Asylum.  Price  paid,  $20.00.  In  March,  the 
farm  of  Newman  Allen  was  negotiated  for,  containing  one  hundred 
and  seventy-five  acres  more  or  less,  and  being  the  bulk  of  the  so 
called  "  Kingsley  farm,"  originally  offered  to  the  Trustees  as  a  site 
for  the  Asylum  [see  1836].  The  cost  of  this  extensive  purchase  was 
$10,500,  which  was  paid  for  in  annual  instalments  of  $1,000  ;  the 
same  being  secured  by  a  mortgage  upon  the  property.  This  consti- 
tutes the  principal  portion  of  the  meadow  and  cultivated  part  of  the 
farm,  to-day. 

This  month  was  also  secured  additional  woodland  upon  the 
mountain,  of  John  Heywood  and  others,  at  a  cost  of  $840. 

While  the  Trustees  were  thus  with  wise  foresight  enlarging  the 
domains  of  the  Asylum,  they  were  not  unmindful  of  the  needs  of  the 
household  in  detdil,  and  the  sanitary  welfare  of  the  inmates  of  the 
Institution. 

The  evils  incident  to  a  crowded  house  were  now  sensiby  felt,  and 
along  with  this,  measures  for  overcoming  practical  inconveniences 
were  suggested.  At  the  April  meeting  of  the  Board,  it  was  Voted^ 
"That  J.  D.  Bradley  and  F.  Holbrook,  together  with  the  Superinten- 
dent, be  a  committee  to  devise  the  best  mode  of  ventilation."  The 
method  of  heating  the  Institution  being  by  hot  air  furnaces,  a  forced 
system  of  changing  the  air  was  impracticable.  It  was,  therefore, 
determined  to  increase  the  exit  flues,  which  was  done  by  construct- 
ing additional  chimneys  in  each  wing,  with  registers  opening  into 
them  from  each  floor. 

The  report  of  the  Trustees  gives  the  following  authentic  state- 
ment of  the  burning  of  the  farm  barn  at  the  close  of  the  preceding 
year. 

"  On  the  fifth  of  December,  the  larger  barn  belonging  to  the 
Institution  was  entirely  destroyed  by  fire.  It  contained  about  ninety 
tons  of  hay,  twenty-nine  cattle,  and  a  considerable  amount  of  grain. 


I20  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

"The  fire  was  discovered  about  8  o'clock  in  the  evening,  and  was 
evidently  the  work  of  an  incendiary.  It  spread  with  such  rapidity 
that  the  whole  building  and  its  contents  were  in  flames  before  it  was 
discovered.  But  so  prompt,  vigorous  and  efficient  were  the  fire 
companies  of  this  village,  that  the  fire  was  confined  to  the  large  barn, 
and  the  three  large  contiguous  buildings  were  saved.  Too  much 
praise  cannot  be  bestowed  on  the  fire  companies  especially,  and  also 
on  the  citizens  of  this  village  generally,  for  their  efficient  and  suc- 
cessful efforts  in  stopping  the  progress  of  the  fire.  A  new  barn  has 
since  been  built  of  larger  dimensions  and  in  an  improved  manner." 
The  cost  of  the  latter  was  |p2,ooo.oo,  toward  this  an  insurance  was 
received  of  $1,448.63. 

The  Trustees  also  refer  as  follows  to  the  recent  enlargement  of 
the  estate  : 

"  We  have  purchased  the  farm  lately  owned  by  Mr.  Newman 
Allen,  and  which  lay  in  the  midst  of  land  belonging  to  this  Institu- 
tion. This  farm  is  easy  to  cultivate,  and  the  soil  is  rich  and  produc- 
tive, and  will  afford  much  useful  and  pleasant  employment  to  the 
patients.  With  the  exception  of  one  or  two  small  pieces  of  land, 
which  are  nearly  surrounded  by  that  belonging  to  the  Institution,  we 
shall  not  need  any  further  addition  to  the  farm." 

The  Superintendent  reports  admissions,  one  hundred  and  fifty- 
seven  ;  discharges,  one  hundred  and  fifty-five ;  remaining  August 
ist,  four  hundred  and  fifteen. 

He  refers  to  the  building  erected  the  preceding  year,  on  the  site 
of  the  original  "White  House,"  and  which  at  its  opening  was  desig- 
nated the  "  Marsh  Building,"  in  remembrance  and  honor  of  the 
founder  of  the  Asylum,  and  says,  "  it  has  added  greatly  to  the  facili- 
ties for  the  classification  and  treatment  of  the  patients. 

"  It  greatly  relieves  us  "  [he  further  adds]  "  from  the  crowded  state 
of  the  Institution,  from  which  we  suffered  before  it  was  completed. 
In  the  front  part  of  the  building,  we  have  a  number  of  suits  of  rooms, 
where  a  limited  number  of  quiet  patients  can  be  accommodated. 
They  can  take  their  meals  with  the  Superintendent,  and  be  entirely 
separated  from  the  rest  of  the  patients." 

This  arrangement  for  a  limited  number  of  patients  as  boarders, 
cases  of  dipsomania,  or  nervous  disorder  short  of  pronounced  in- 
sanity, in  persons  of  superior  social  position,  was  continued  as  shown 
above,  for  many  years.  It  is  further  noted,  that  "great  improve- 
ments have  been  made  the  past  year  for  warming  and  ventilating  all 
the  buildings  throughout  the  establishment,  which  are  occupied  by 
the  patients." 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEAR    1858.  121 

The  income  for  the  year  was,  $58,663.44 

The  expenditure,  58,890.58 


Balance  against  the  Asylum,  $227.14 

The  following  officers  were  chosen  for  the  year  ensuing : 

OFFICERS    OF    THE    BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
F.  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

VV.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 
Alanson  Weatherhead,  Farmer. 
Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 

F.  C  ^Veeks       1 

n    Tvir  r>   rr   '       r  Assistant  Physicians. 

G.  M.  Buffum,   \  •' 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  Clerk. 


RECORD  OF  i859. 


AT  the  first  meeting  of  the  Board  this  year,  the  Trustees  Voted, 
"  That  Frederick  Holbrook  and  W.  H.  Rockwell  be  a  com- 
mittee to  erect  a  brick  horse-barn,  in  a  substantial  and  im- 
proved manner." 

This  it  was  determined  to  locate  contiguously  to  the  brick  store- 
house at  its  eastern  extremity,  and  in  the  line  of  buildings  at  the 
rear  of  the  west  wing  of  the  main  buildings.  The  wooden  building 
heretofore  serving  as  stable,  was  removed  still  further  to  the  rear, 
and  fitted  up  as  a  shop  for  mechanical  work.  Other  changes  were 
likewise  made  in  the  rear  line  of  wooden  structures  between  the  new 
stable  and  female  infirmary,  particularly  in  providing  a  store-house 
for  fuel  in  the  rear  of  the  center  building.  The  cost  of  these  im- 
provements was  $2,500.00. 

In  June  of  this  year  a  half  acre  of  land  near  the  Asylum  was 
purchased  for  the  sum  of  $30.00  of  Mary  A.  Knowlton. 

One  hundred  and  fifty-six  patients  are  reported  as  received,  and 
one  hundred  and  forty  discharged  ;  leaving  August  ist,  four  hund- 
red and  thirty-one.  The  Superintendent  refers  below  with  especial 
satisfaction  to  the  improved  means  of  illumination,  in  connection 
with  the  village  enterprise  this  year  established. 

"  Arrangements  have  been  made  with  the  Brattleboro  Gas  Com- 
pany, by  which  the  Asylum  is  now  brilliantly  lighted  in  this  manner. 
The  air  of  cheerfulness,  which  now  pervades  the  Institution,  is  in 
striking  contrast  with  its  former  condition." 

He  also  discourses  as  follows  upon  the  importance  of,  and  diffi- 
culties in  securing  proper  persons  as  attendants.  "  Few  things  are 
more  important  in  an  Asylum  for  the  Insane  than  a  proper  selection 
of  suitable  persons  for  attendants.  Unless  they  possess  a  good  share 
of  common  sense,  together  with  kindness,  industry,  and  tact  in  enter- 
ing into  the  views  of  the  patients,  and  making  their  situations 
agreeable,  and  are  themselves  governed  by  the  golden  rule 
*  Whatsoever  ye  would  that  others  should  do  to  you,  do  ye  even  so  to 
them,'  they  should   never  engage  in  this  important  calling.     They 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR   1859.  123 

should  ever  bear  in  mind  that  the  patient  is  insane,  that  his  out- 
breaks are  the  result  of  his  disease,  and  that  he  is  not  responsible 
for  acts  over  which  he  has  no  control.  Unless  such  persons  are 
employed  for  this  purpose  the  endeavors  and  labors  of  the"  Superin- 
tendent will,  in  a  great  measure  be  frustrated." 

The  finances  of  the  year  show, 
Income,  $59»433-7o 

Expenditure,  60,408,76 


Balance  short,  $975-o6 

At  the  annual  meeting  the  following  officers  were  chosen  : — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
F.  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

W.   H.   Rockwell,   Superintendent  and   Physician. 

Alanson  Weatherhead,  Farmer. 

Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 

F.  C.  Weeks,  ) 

G.M.Buffum,l^'^^'^^^^^P^>^^^^''^"^' 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  Clerk. 
Additional  land  upon  the  mountain  was  also  this  year  secured  by 
Dr.  Rockwell,  and  turned  over  to  the  Asylum  by  him  December  17th 
at  a  co.st  of  $100. 


RECORD  OF  i860. 


IN  March  of  this  year  eighteen  acres  of  cultivated  land  were 
added  to  the  Asylum  estate,  by  purchase  of  Keith  White, 
for  the  sum  of  $1700.  This  is  the  open  lot  upon  the  western 
side  of  Cedar  street,  opposite  the  Asylum  Park. 

In  June  three  meetings  were  held  by  the  Trustees,  to  discuss  the 
question  of  raising  all  the  roofs  of  the  main  line  of  wings,  thus 
adding  another  story  for  occupancy  by  patients. 

At  the  third  meeting  it  was  Voted^  "  That  J.  D.  Bradley,  Esq., 
invite  Mr.  Silloway,  architect,  of  Boston,  to  visit  Brattleboro  and 
ascertain  the  practicability  of  raising  the  buildings,"  and  also,  Fofed, 
"If  considered  practicable,  that  the  said  buildings  be  raised  one 
story  next  year." 

The  report  of  the  architect  showed  the  project  to  be  feasible, 
and  preparations  were  accordingly  begun  without  delay. 

This  was  a  year  devoted  to  the  current  routine  of  Asylum  work. 
"Since  the  opening  of  the  Institution,"  say  the  Trustees,  "an  almost 
uninterrupted  success  has  attended  its  operations.  We  are  ready 
to  admit  that  some  would  have  recovered  at  home,  but  many  others 
would  have  passed  into  an  incurable  state,  and  prolonged  a  wretched 
existence  deprived  of  the  comforts  and  enjoyments  of  life,  and  a 
source  of  constant  anxiety  and  affliction  to  friends. 

"Improvements  are  constantly  being  made  for  the  comfort 
and  welfare  of  the  patients,  and  the  facilities  are  increased  for 
their  restoration. 

"The  Trustees,  in  their  visits  to  the  Asylum  have  noticed 
the  comfort  and  good  order  which  everywhere  prevailed,  and  believe 
the  designs  of  the  Institution  are  carried  out  in  a  faithful  and 
judicious  manner." 

The  Superintendent's  Report  shows  constantly  increasing  num- 
bers treated.       One  hundred  and  forty-three  were  received,  and  one 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR   i860.  125 

hundred    and    thirty-eight    discharged,    leaving    four    hundred    and 
thirty-six  in  the  Asylum  August  ist. 

His  report  is  devoted  largely  to  the  consideration  of  mental 
disease,  from  which  the  following  extracts  are  made  : 

'*  Insanity  is  evidently  on  the  increase  in  this  country.  There 
are  various  causes  for  producihg  this  result.  The  rigid  discipline 
of  our  ancestors  in  the  education  of  their  children,  has  given  place 
to  another  extreme  which  is  far  more  injurious  to  the  healthy  action 
of  the  mental  faculties.  By  permitting  the  passions  to  riot  without 
control,  a  character  is  forming  which  will  prove  unfavorable  for 
preserving  a  well  balanced  mind, 

"  Overtasking  the  young  mind  is  another  fruitful  source  of 
insanity.  In  childhood  the  brain  is  too  tender  an  organ  to  be 
excited  by  any  over  exertion  of  intellectual  labor,  without  hazarding 
serious  and  permanent  injury.  Parents  are  too  frequently  desirous 
of  hastening  the  mental  attainments  of  their  children,  and  at  the 
same  time  are  almost  entirely  neglectful  of  their  physical  welfare. 

"The  exciting  and  hazardous  speculations  in  which  the  people 
of  this  country  frequently  embark,  and  which  so  often  result  in 
disastrous  failure,  and  consequent  mortified  pride  and  disappoint- 
ment, are  frequent  causes  of  insanity.  Besides  these  and  various 
other  causes,  anything  which  tends  to  disturb  the  health  and  nervous 
system,  predisposes  to  insanity.  In  attempting  the  restoration  of 
the  insane  one  of  the  first  indications  for  their  recovery  is  to  remove 
them  from  all  the  influences  that  operated  to  produce  the  disease, 
and  place  them  in  situations  that  shall  awaken  new  associations,  and 
divert  the  mind  from  all  those  painful  impressions  with  which  jt  has 
been  afflicted. 

**In  the  classification  of  our  patients  we  have  always  endeavored 
to  associate  those  together  who  shall  be  a  mutual  benefit  to  each 
other,  or  at  least  shall  not  be  injurious.  Regard  is  always  had 
to  their  former  condition,  education  and  habits  of  life.  The  sensi- 
bilities of  the  insane  are  frequently  rendered  more  acute  by  their 
disease,  and  require  the  greatest  caution  that  they  are  not  annoyed 
by  those  whose  habits  are  disagreeable  and  unpleasant." 

The  resources  for  the  year  ending  August  ist  were,  $59,270.28 

Expenditures,  57,809.68 

Balance  on  hand,  $1,460.60 


126  ANNy\LS  OF    THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

The  following  officers  were  elected  at  the  annual  meeting 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell^  Secretary. 
F.  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

W.  H.   Rockwell,    Superintendent  and  Physician. 

Alanson  Weatherhead,  Farmer. 

Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 

F.    C.    Weeks,  , 

Joseph  Draper,  \  Assistant  Physicians. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  Clerk. 


RECORD  OF   t86i. 


THIS  year  was  devoted  to  the  work  planned  in  the  preceding, 
and  was  otherwise  uneventful. 
The  Trustees  in  their  report  say,  "During  this  season 
we  have  raised  the  roofs  of  the  wings  of  the  main  building,  and  are 
adding  another  story,  thereby  furnishing  nearly  one  hundred  addi- 
tional rooms.  Our  means  of  classification  and  facilities  for  restora- 
tion  will  be  greatly  improved.  This  last  story  is  in  progress  of 
completion,  and  we  hope  will  soon  be  finished  for  the  'accommoda- 
tion of  patients." 

One  hundred  and  forty  were  this  year  admitted,  one  hundred 
and  thirty-eight  discharged,  leaving  August  ist,  four  hundred 
and  thirty-eight  in  the  Asylum. 

The  Superintendent  refers  to  the  chief  work  of  improvement  in 
the  following  terms  : — . 

"For  several  years  the  buildings  have  been  so  crowded  that 
wq  have  experienced  the  want  of  additional  room  to  furnish  all  the 
accommodations  necessary  for  the  comfort  and  restoration  of  the 
inmates. 

"  From  the  inconveniences  and  annoyances  attending  the  altera- 
tion and  enlargement  of  the  buildings,  the  care  and  duties  of 
all  in  charge  of  the  patients  were  greatly  increased  and  rendered 
difficult  and  laborious.  I  have  the  pleasure  and  satisfaction  of  being 
able  to  state  that  all  these  duties  were  performed  with  a  cheerfulness 
and  alacrity  which  was  worthy  of  all  praise." 

The  following  professional  observations  command  notice. 

"I  would  recur  to  the  oft  repeated  fact,  the  great  importance 
of  placing  the  patients  at  a  proper  asylum  in  the  first  stages  of  their 
disease.  If  the  patient  be  suddenly  attacked  with  a  violent  form  of 
mania,  or  because  dangerous,  and  the  friends  have  not  the  means  of 
restraining  him,  he  will  be  generally  taken  to  an  asylum  where 
the  usual  facilities  and  appliances  for  his  recovery  can  be  available, 
and  he  will  usually  be  restored  to  his  friends  and  usefulness  in 
a  short  time.     But  when  the   incipient  stage  of  insanity  comes  on 


128  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

insidiously  and  almost  inperceptibly,  is  slow  in  its  progress,  and  the 
patient  is  harmless  and  passive  in  his  conduct,  the  friends  cherish 
the  hope  that  the  disease  will  soon  wear  away,  and  they  will  be 
saved  the  painful  necessity  of  parting  with  their  dear  relative,  and 
committing  him  to  the  care  of  strangers.  Notwithstanding  they  act 
from  the  very  best  of  motives  and  kindest  intentions,  this  course 
has  been  the  means  of  depriving  many  of  a  radical  and  permanent 
cure,  consigning  them  to  a  hopeless,  incurable  state. 

"Among  the  causes  which  tend  to  produce  this  afflicting  malady, 
intemperance  has  long  been  known  to  be  one  of  the  most  prolific. 
Its  effects  are  not  confined  to  that  form  of  insanity  familiarly  known 
as  delirium  tremens.  In  noticing  the  causes  of  insanity  many 
causes  are  attributed  to  Moss  of  property,'  'ill  health,'  'domestic 
affliction,'  and  similar  causes,  all  of  which  are  frequently  produced 
by  intemperance.  Insanity  and  death  are  both  more  liable  to 
be  produced  at  the  present  time  by  intemperance  than  formerly. 
The  recent  developments  of  the  poisonous  adulteration  of  alcoholic 
stimulants  should  be  sufficient  to  deter  everyone  from  the  use  of  all, 
excepting  as  unavoidable  medicines,  and  then  the  purest  liquors 
only  should  be  used." 

Income  this  year,  $59,7o4-75 

Expenditure,  61,797.24 


Balance  short,  $2,092.49 

At  the  annual  meeting  the  following  officers  were  chosen  for  the 
year  ensuing  : — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 

Alanson  Weatherhead,  Farmer. 

Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 

F.    C.    Weeks,  ) 

Joseph  Draper,  \  Assistant  Physicians. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  Clerk. 
The   expenditure    involved    in  the   raising  of  the   roofs  of  the 
wings  and  building  another  story  under  them,  was  $12,000. 


RECORD  OF  1862. 


AFTER  another  story  had  been  superimposed  upon  the  wings, 
some  difficulty  and  inadequacy  of  heating  the  same  from  the 
existing    furnaces,    was    experienced.      The   subject   early 
came  under  discussion  by  the  Board  of  Trustees,  and  the  matter 
reached  the  following  action  at  their  July  meeting  : 

Voted,  "  That  W.  H.  Rockwell  be  authorized  to  procure  the 
materials  for  a  new  building,  for  the  purpose  of  warming  the  main 
building  by  steam,  and  for  other  purposes." 

The  i^eport  of  the  Trustees,  August  ist,  notes  the  completion 
of  the  work  of  the  previous  year,  and  adds,  "  We  are  now  realizing 
all  the  benefits  we  anticipated  by  the  addition  of  a  whole  tier  [flat] 
of  excellent  rooms,  the  opportunities  for  greater  classification,  and 
the  increased  facilities  for  the  restoration  of  the  inmates. 

"  Improvements  have  also  been  made  on  the  farm,  in  the  mode 
of  its  cultivation,  and  in  the  increased  products  which  have  resulted 
from  it.  The  farm,  although  its  pecuniary  consideration  is  of 
secondary  importance,  is  still  of  great  value,  by  its  furnishing 
healthy  employment  for  the  male  patients,  and  by  its  contributing  to 
their  comfort  and  recovery." 

In  the  financial  affairs  of  the  Asylum  the  Trustees  say,  they 
"have  carefully  watched  the  expenses  and  income  and  fixed 
the  terms  as  low  as  practicable,  consistently  with  the  best  interests 
of  the  Institution.  While  they  have  studied  economy,  they  have 
also  endeavored  to  withhold  no  reasonable  expense  in  the  curative 
treatment  of  the  patients." 

The  Superintendent  reports  four  hundred  and  sixty-three  patients 
in  the  Asylum,  August  ist.  One  hundred  and  forty-six  having  been 
admitted,  and  one  hundred  and  twenty-one  discharged,  in  the 
preceding  twelvemonth. 

Dr.  Rockwell  says,  "There  has  been  little  of  novelty  in  our 
mode  of  treatment  the  past  year.  Whenever  we  find  physical 
disease  we  endeavor  to  remove  it  by  the  usual  means,  and  restore 


130  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM.  . 

the  general  health  of  the  patient.  In  our  moral  treatment  we 
endeavor  to  furnish  pleasant  and  useful  employment  for  all  we 
can  engage  in  that  manner,  not  neglecting  the  usual  amusements 
and  entertainments  afforded  at  the  Institution. 

"Provision  is  made  for  reading,  walking,  riding,  various  games, 
and  other  amusements,  which  serve  to  divert  the  mind  from  its 
delusions.  We  encourage  especially  all  amusements  which  require 
exercise  of  the  body  as  well  as  diversion  of  the  mind,  •  such  as 
ten-pins,  billiards,  quoits,  and  the  like. 

"When  the  patients  can  be  induced  to  take  an  interest  in  some 
useful  employment  requiring  active  physical  exercise,  the  result 
is  more  lasting  and  beneficial.  The  grounds  in  front  of  the  Asylum, 
the  flower  and  culinary  garden  and  the  extensive  farm  furnish  abun- 
dant occupation  in  the  summer  season  for  all  our  male  patients  who 
will  assist  in  their  cultivation  and  improvement.  The  pleasant 
reflection  of  having  done  something  for  the  benefit  of  others,  affords 
them  much  satisfaction. 

"  In  our  mechanical  shops  we  have  furnished  useful  and  pleasant 
employment  to  many  who  have  derived  pleasure  in  contributing 
their  share  in  benefitting  the  Institution.  We  have  endeavored 
to  employ  each  one  in  his  own  particular  department,  and  much  by 
way  of  repairing  and  improvement  has  been  accomplished  by  this 
means. 

"  The  female  patients  are  employed  in  making  and  repairing  their 
own  dresses,  and  those  of  other  patients.  Much  is  also  done  by 
them  in  making  and  repairing  bedding,  and  other  work  for  the 
Asylum.  Some  are  employed  in  embroidery,  painting,  drawing, 
playing  on  the  piano,  and  like  occupations. 

"  One  great  source  of  novelty  and  entertainment  to  the  patients 
is  the  various  manifestations  of  ideas  by  other  patients.  Those 
whose  minds  are  not  too  imbecile  or  demented  easily  perceive  the 
insane  notions  of  the  other  inmates.  By  this  means  their  minds  are 
diverted  from  their  own  delusions,  and  they  begin  to  distrust  their 
'own  wild  fancies,  and  a  commencement  is  made  towards  their 
recovery.  It  is  supposed  by  some  that  the  wild  notions  of  the  insane 
in  a  lunatic  asylum  would  retard  rather  than  accelerate  the  recovery 
of  the  rest.  This  is  not  the  case  when  the  inmates  are  judiciously 
classified. 

"  Many  of  the  patients  have  received  benefit  by  administering  to 
the  wants  and  comforts  of  thpir  fellow  inmates.  We  always  encour- 
age these  acts  of  benevolence,  as  beneficial  to  both  the  giver  and 
receiver." 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEAR    1862.  131 

This  last  paragraph  is  particularly  significant,  and  illustrates 
again  a  principle  firmly  believed  in  by  the  Doctor,  of  recognizing 
and  encouraging  mutual  dependence,  and  the  mutual  sharing  of 
responsibilities. 

The  following  is  the  result  of  this  year's  annual  election: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 

Ira  X.  Haywood,  Farmer. 

Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 

Joseph    Draper,        |  •      .  . 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.  f  Assistant  Physicians. 

The  financial  statement  shows. 
Income,  $60,381.02 

Expenditure,  59,653-59 


Balance  on  hand,  $727.43 

In  November  twenty-five  acres  of  mountain  woodland  were  pur- 
chased of  Farnsworth  &  Colburn  for  $200,  and  in  December  another 
tract  of  forty-four  acres  of  Colburn  &  Cobleigh  for  $400. 

The  Superintendent  closed  his  report  August  ist,  in  the  following 
words: — 

"  Encouraged  by  our  increased  facilities  and  the  success  which 
has  attended  our  past  labors,  we  would  again  commend  this  Institu- 
tion to  the  same  protecting  Providence  which  has  thus  far  sustained 
it,  humbly  trusting  that  the  means  here  used  for  the  benefit  of 
the  unfortunate  will  promote  their  comfort  and  restoration." 

But  events  totally  unforeseen-  were  destined  to  occur  before 
the  close  of  the  current  year. 

In  September  Hon.  J.  D.  Bradley,  a  member  of  the  Board  of 
Trustees  for  the  fifteen  years  past,  was  removed  by  death. 

At  the  December  meeting  of  the  Board  on  the  second  Monday 
of  the  month,  the  Trustees  remaining,  proceeded  to  elect  a  suc- 
cessor. 

"  The  ballots  being  taken  and  counted,  Hon.  Daniel  Kellogg  was 
unanimously  elected,  and  being  notified  of  his  election,  accepted  the 
trust." 


132  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

Immediately  following  this  date,  on  the  21st  of  the  month, 
occurred  the  most  disastrous  fire  that  has  ever  befallen  the  Institu- 
tion. 

The  following  account  of  this  event  is  taken  from  the  Vermont 
Phoenix  of  December  25th. 

The  Fire  at  the  Asylum. 

"A  fire  broke  out  in  the  Asylum  in  this  village  on  Sunday  morn- 
ing last  about  2  o'clock,  and  before  it  could  be  arrested  the  center 
and  the  wings  west  of  it  were  consumed.  The  night  was  bitter  cold, 
and  the  wind  was  strong,  but  fortunately  blew  in  a  direction  favor- 
able for  saving  the  buildings  in  the  rear,  on  the  north  side.  The 
engines  were  there  as  promptly  as  the  distance  [half  a  mile]  would 
allow,  and  did  good  service.  The  first  thing  was  to  take  the  patients 
to  a  place  of  safety.  They  were  removed  as  soon  as  possible  to  the 
building  on  the  west  side  of  the  road,  and  to  the  Center  church 
in  the  village.  A  part  of  the  furniture,  stores,  clothing,  bedding, 
etc.,  was  removed  from  the  entire  building,  and  every  exertion  was 
made  to  stop  the  progress  of  the  flames.  It  was  hoped  at  one  time 
that  the  center  might  be  saved,  and  strong  efforts  were  made  to  that 
effect,  but  without  success.  In  consequence  of  the  brick  wall  and 
the  iron  doors  leading  from  the  center  to  the  wings  on  the  east,  and 
by  judiciously  playing  with  the  engines,  the  fire  was  held  at  bay 
in  the  center,  and  the  east  wings  were  saved  with  but  slight  damage. 
It  was  a  difficult  thing  to  convey  the  patients  to  safe  places,  as  many 
of  them  were  so  bereft  of  reason,  and  were  so  much  excited  by 
the  fire,  that  they  were  as  likely  to  run  to,  as  from  the  flames.  Con- 
sidering their  number,  and  the  circumstances  of  the  case,  we  should 
naturally  expect  that  a  large  number  would  have  perished  in  the 
flames,  but  it  has  not  been  ascertained  with  certainty  that  more  than 
one  perished.  The  loss  of  property  is  great,  but  is  covered,  we 
understand,  to  the  amount  of  something  more  than  twenty-eight 
thousand  dollars.  None  of  the  propety  lost  was  insured  in  this 
State,  but  in  several  insurance  companies  in  Massachusetts  and 
Connecticut.  Arrangements  will  very  soon  be  made  so  that  the 
patients  will  again  have  comfortable  quarters,  and  as  soon  as  the 
weather  will  permit  we  presume  the  buildings  destroyed  will  be 
rebuilt.  Several  of  the  patients  wandered  away  or  ran  away  during 
the  fire,  but  most  of  them  have  been  recovered. 

"Much  credit  is  due  to  the  fire  companies  for  their  prompt 
and  efficient  services,  and  to  our  citizens  generally  who  turned  out 
on  that  inclement  night  to  save  life  and  property.     Many  men  and 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1862.  133 

many  women  exposed  themselves  that  dreadful  night  to  render  what 
assistance  they  could.  We  have  heard  several  persons  speak  of  the 
self-possessed,  cool  manner  in  which  young  Rockwell,  son  of  the 
superintendent,  gave  information  of  the  situation  of  things,  and 
instructions  as  to  what  should  be  done,  and  how  his  directions 
might  be  carried  out.  How  the  fire  caught  is  not  positively  known. 
It  commenced  in  the  basement  near  one  of  the  furnaces,  but  whether 
from  some  defect  in  the  furnace  or  the  chimney  connected  with  it, 
or  from  some  oth^r  cause  we  are  unable  to  say.  It  is  a  great  calam- 
ity, public  and  private,  and  Doctor  Rockwell  and  his  family,  and 
patients  have  the  deep  sympathy  of  many  friends  in  this  sad  misfor- 
tune. 

The  people  of  the  village  freely  sent  supplies  of  food  to  the 
patients,  until  arrangements  were  made  otherwise  to  furnish  them, 
and  on  Sunday  forenoon  some  of  the  churches  in  the  village  omitted 
public  religious  services  for  the  performance  of  a  pressing  religious 
duty  to  the  suffering. 

P.  S.  We  learn  since  writing  the  above  that  of  the  patients 
missing  after  the  fire  all  but  five  have  returned,  and  two  of  those 
five  have  been  heard  from;  also,  that  it  is  not  quite  certain  that  even 
one  perished  in  the  flames." 

An  authoritative  communication  to  the  American  Journal  of 
Insanity,  in  the  January  number  following,  states  that,  "  During  the 
removal  of  the  patients  from  one  building  to  another  at  the  time  of 
the  fire  a  considerable  number  escaped.  All  have  been  returned 
but  four,  and  two  of  these  have  been  heard  from.  It  is  not  known 
that  any  one  has  been  destroyed  by  the  fire." 

It  may  here  be  stated  that  no  certain  knowledge  of  the  missing 
four,  referred  to  in  the  latter  account,  has  ever  been  obtained;  and 
it  is  possible  they  may  have  fallen  victims  to  this  casualty. 


RECORD  OF  1863. 


PROMPTLY,  at  the  first  regular  meeting  of  the  Board  this  year, 
the  Trustees  Voted,  ''To  rebuild  that  portion  of  the  estab- 
lishment which  was  destroyed  by  fire,  as  soon  as  possible." 

In  their  report  of  this  year  we  have  an  official  statement  of  this 
occurrence: — 

"  Since  submitting  the  last  annual  report  the  center  building  and 
adjoining  male  wings  were  destroyed  by  fire.  At  two  o'clock  in  the 
morning  of  the  21st  of  December  last,  the  fire  was  discovered  in  the 
room  directly  over  the  furnace  in  the  male  wing,  immediately 
adjoining  the  center  building.  The  stairway  which  led  from  one 
story  to  another,  and  made  of  combustible  materials,  was  directly 
over  the  furnace,  and  served  as  a  means  of  communicating  the  fire 
to  the  upper  parts  of  the  wing.  In  consequence  of  a  high  wind,  the 
flames  extended  rapidly  to  the  center  building,  which  with  the  male 
wings  were  entirely  destroyed,  excepting  the  outer  walls  of  the 
wings.  The  walls  of  the  center  building  were  rendered  entirely 
useless.  The  fire  companies  were  immediately  on  the  spot,  and 
prevented  the  fire  from  extending  to  the  female  department.  By  the 
extraordinary  exertions  and  well-directed  management  of  those  who 
had  the  care  of  the  patients,  they  were  removed  to  a  place  of  safety, 
while  nearly  all  of  the  furniture  and  other  property  in  the  consumed 
buildings  were  destroyed. 

By  appropriating  the  large  Marsh  Building,  which  previously  was 
only  partially  occupied,  and  the  female  infirmary  for  the  accommo- 
dation of  the  male  patients,  they  were  made  quite  comfortable,  and 
especially  so  as  soon  as  a  portion  of  them  could  be  removed  by  their 
friends." 

The  decease  of  Mr.  Bradley  is  thus  commented  upon  by  the 
Trustees: 

"  During  the  past  year  the  Institution  has  lost  one  of  its  early  and 
devoted  friends,  in  the  removal  by  death  of  the  Hon.  J.  D.  Bradley, 
one  of  the  Trustees.  He  always  manifested  a  strong  sympathy  for 
the  unfortunate,  and  was  always  ready  to  cooperate  in  any  proper 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1863.  135 

way  for  the  amelioration  of  their  condition.  His  labors  for  the 
interest  of  this  Institution,  and  the  welfare  of  its  unfortunate  sub- 
jects, will  be  held  in  grateful  remembrance." 

In  the  report  of  the  Superintendent,  Dr.  Rockwell  observes: — 

"I  should  do  injustice  to  my  own  feelings  if  I  failed  to  pay  a 
passing  tribute  to  the  memory  of  the  late  Hon.  J.  D.  Bradley,  one 
of  the  Trustees.  He  was  a  member  of  this  Board  more  than  fifteen 
years.  He  was  not  merely  a  nominal  officer  of  the  Institution,  but 
during  the  whole  of  this  time  he  manifested  a  deep  interest  in  its 
welfare,  and  was  always  ready  and  willing  to  contribute  his  time  and 
influence  to  its  best  interests.  He  was  always  kind,  affable  and 
courteous  in  his  intercourse  with  all,  and  the  patients  looked  on  him 
as  their  particular  friend." 

In  consequence  of  the  destruction  of  so  large  a  part  of  the 
buildings,  the  number  of  admissions  this  year  falls  much  below  that 
of  the  immediately  preceding  ones.  Ninety-eight  were  received, 
and  one  hundred  and  nineteen  discharged;  leaving  August  ist,  four 
hundred  and  forty-two  under  care. 

It  will  be  remembered  that  at  this  time  too,  our  country  was 
in  the  midst  of  that  great  struggle  for  national  life,  which  during  its 
continuance  vitally  affected  the  population  of  every  state,  and  might 
be  supposed  to  figure  more  or  less  as  an  element  in  developing 
the  insanity  of  the  time.     Upon  this  point  Dr.  Rockwell  thus  writes: 

"  In  noticing  the  causes  of  insanity  we  have  failed  to  see  as  many 
cases  produced  by  the  progress  and  results  of  the  war  as  might 
be  anticipated.  The  fears,  the  anxieties  and  suspense  of  those  who 
have  had  some  dear  relative  in  their  country's  service;  the  grief  and 
affliction  of  those  whose  affectionate  objects  have  died  on  the  battle- 
field or  in  the  hospital,  not  to  mention  the  fears  of  those  who  suffered 
intensely  lest  they  should  be  drafted  to  sustain  and  defend  their 
country  and  its  liberties,  all  have  had  their  influence,  if  not  in  pro- 
ducing, at  least  in  giving  a  form  to  the  insanity  of  the  time. 

"On  the  other  hand,  the  general,  if  not  universal  desire  to  lessen 
the  hardships  of  a  soldier's  life,  and  to  promote  his  comfort  and 
welfare  while  in  his  country's  service,  has  called  forth  that  generous 
labor,  and  awakened  that  disinterested  benevolence,  and  diverted 
the  mind  from  its  personal  trials  and  afflictions,  the  tendency  of 
which  is  favorable  to  the  preservation  of  mental  soundness." 
The  income  this  year  was,  $60,488.51 

The  expenditure,  •  63,151.81 


Balance  short,  $2,663.30 


136  ANNALS   OF    THE   VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

The  cost  of  rebuilding  the  burned  portion  of  the  estabUshment 
was  $41,000. 

This  is  not  included  in  the  current  receipts  and  disbursements, 
but  was  expended  in  the  building  account,  and  if  included,  should 
be  offset  by  the  addition  of  this  amount  to  the  item  of  improvements 
and  repairs. 

Toward  this  an  insurance  was  received  of  $25,300. 

The  following  additions  of  land  were  this  year  made: 

One  lot  of  ten  acres  upon  the  meadow,  of  Gov.  Frederick  Hol- 
brook,  for  $1,700.  This  gave  to  the  Asylum  complete  possession  of 
the  whole  tract  between  the  Newfane  road  and  West  River.  About 
seventy  acres  of  woodland  of  John  F.  Stearns,  Sallv  Nurse  and 
others  of  Dummerston,  for  the  price  of  $1,752. 

The  following  was  the  result  of  the  annual  election  in  August: 

OFFICERS    OF    THE    BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
F.  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 

Ira  X.  Haywood,  Farmer. 

Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 

Joseph  Draper,  )         .  ,      .  . 

,,,   -.__,.       11    T      r  Assistant  Phvsicians. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  C 


RECORD  OF   1864. 


THE  record  of  this  year  shows  but  a  single  unusual  event.     The 
Trustees   in   their    report    make   note   of  a  bequest,    which 
though  small,  is  the  only  one  of  which  the  Institution  has 
been  the  recipient  since  that  of  Widow  Anna  Marsh,  the  founder. 

"We  are  glad  to  be  able  to  state  [say  the  Trustees]  that  the  late 
Amherst  Willoughby,  Esq.,  of  Berkshire,  Vt.,  in  his  will  bequeathed 
the  interest  of  one  thousand  dollars  annually  to  the  Vermont 
Asylum,  to  be  expended  for  the  benefit  of  the  insane  poor  of  this 
state.  We  hope  the  example  may  be  followed  by  others;  and  we  are 
sure  that  more  deserving  objects  of  charity  cannot  be  found,  than 
within  the  walls  of  this  Institution." 

At  the  annual  meeting  the  following  choice  of  officers  was  made: 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  'J'reasurer. 
J.  D.  Bradley,  Secretary. 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

-     W.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 
Ira  X.  Haywood,  Farmer. 
x\bigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 
Joseph  Draper,  )         . 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.  [  A^^'^'^"' P'^y^"^'^"^- 
The  Superintendent  reports  one  hundred  and  twenty-eight  ad- 
missions, and  one  hundred  and  twelve  discharges;  leaving  August 
ist,  four  hundred  and  fifty-eight  in  the  Asylum. 

Dr.  Rockwell  writes,  "  We  have  of  late  discovered  no  important 
new  principles  in  the  treatment  of  the  insane.  We  watch  the  prog- 
ress of  improvement  in  this  great  cause  of  humanity,  both  in  this 
country  and  in  Europe,  and  endeavor  to  keep  pace  with  every 
advancement  that  may  be  made.  The  medical  and  moral  treatment 
of  each  patient  is  varied  by  the  particular  indications  of  each  case. 


138  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

"  There  are  always  more  or  less  patients  in  a  lunatic  asylum  who 
are  disposed  to  be  usefully  occupied  when  opportunity  presents.  If 
these  persons  are  confined  in  the  halls  they  frequently  become 
irritable,  discontented  and  unhappy.  But  if  they  are  allowed  to 
engage  in  some  useful  occupation,  they  become  cheerful  and  pleas- 
ant, and  use  the  direct  means  for  improvmg  their  physical  and 
mental  condition.  We  have  always  noticed  that  those  patients  who 
have  been  suitably  employed  have  been  the  soonest  to  recover. 

"We  encourage  amusements  as  well  as  useful  occupation  for  the 
benefit  of  the  patients.  Almost  any  kind  that  will  occupy  the  atten- 
tion, and  divert  the  mind  from  its  delusions,  will  promote  their 
recovery. 

"  One  of  the  most  important  objects  in  the  treatment  of  the 
insane  is  to  create  in  them  the  feelings  of  self-respect,  and  the  most 
effectual  way  of  accomplishing  this  is  to  treat  them  with  all  kindness, 
respect  and  attention.  By  so  doing  they  wiU  exercise  all  the  self- 
control  of  which  thev  are  capable,  and  endeavor  to  deserve  all 
the  confidence  they  receive.  In  order  to  accomplish  this  system 
of  management,  it  is  very  desirable  that  the  attendants  possess  the 
necessary  intelligence,  kindness  and  tact  for  their  situation.  With 
few  exceptions  we  have  been  very  fortunate  in  obtaining  this  class 
of  assistants." 

An  abstract  of  the  state  of  the  finances  shows: 
Income,  $61,744.27 

Expenditure,  64,335.14 


Balance  short,  $2,590.87 

At  the  close  of  this  year  forty-six  acres  of  woodland  were  pur- 
chased in  Vernon,  of  Mr.  Wells  (xoodhue  for  the  sum  of  $1800. 

The  following  biographical  facts,  relative  to  the  before  mentioned 
donor  of  the  fund  to  the  Asylum,  have  been  obtained  largely  from 
Judge  Myron  W.  Bailey  of  St.  Albans,  and  persons  of  whom  he 
made  inquiries. 

Judge  C.  R.  Brewer  of  Enosburgh,  Vt.,  thus  writes :  "  I  have 
made  some  inquiries  about  Amherst  Willoughby,  of  his  old  neigh- 
bors in  East  Berkshire  (Vt.)  and  give  you  what  little  I  could  learn. 
I  was  unable  to  learn  for  certain  when  he  was  born,  nothing  appears 
on  his  monument.  *  *  *  'I'lie  old  neighbors  think  he  was 
born  in  Connecticut;  could  not  learn  where  he  took  his  degree 
in  medicine.  I  learn  that  he  married  Miss  Hannah  Bingham  of 
Tinmouth,   Vt.,   and    first  kept   hduse   in    Russia,    N.   Y.;    practiced 


RECORD    OF   THE   YEAR    1864.  139 

medicine  there.  From  there  he  came  to  Richford,  Vt.  How  much 
he  followed  his  profession  there  I  could  not  learn.  *  *  * 
From  there  he  moved  to  East  Berkshire  and  was  in  trade  awhile; 
formed  a  partnership  with  Solomon  Bingham  and  William  Barber. 
I  cannot  learn  that  he  ever  had  any  particular  love  for  his  profes- 
sion, or  practiced  very  long.  I  could  learn  nothing  definite  as 
to  what  prompted  him  to  make  the  bequest  for  the  poor  insane." 

Another  says,  "  Both  he  and  his  wife  were  people  of  great 
refinement  and  culture,  moved  in  the  highest  circles,  wxre  capable  of 
adorning  any  position,  and  had  but  few  intimate  friends." 

As  to  what  induced  him  to  make  the  bequest  to  the  Asylum, 
Judge  Bailey  says,  "  I  have  heard  Judge  Barber,  the  executor  of  his 
will,  state  that  a  few  years  before  he  died,  a  poor  clergyman,  who 
had  charge  of  the  parish  where  he  lived  was  taken  insane  [and 
I  think  taken  to  the  Asylum]  and  Judge  Barber  thought  that 
this  event  caused  him  to  make  the  bequest." 

Dr.  Willoughby  was  a  devout  Episcopalian,  and  during  his  life 
time  built  the  little  church  opposite  his  dwelling  in  East  Berk- 
shire, which  he  rnade  residuary  legatee,  after  the  Vermont  Asylum 
bequest  and  the  legacy  to  the  Vermont  Episcopal  Institute.  He 
died  July  27,  1855,  at  East  Berkshire. 

The  vagueness  and  broadness  of  this  legacy  to  the  Asylum, 
in  respect  to  its  application,  has  prevented  its  benefits  from  being 
fully  appreciated  by  any  one  in  particular,  and  is  a  suggestion  that 
to  be  of  most  real  advantage,  such  bequests  should  be  applied  to 
meet  the  want  of  a  specific  class  of  individuals.  If  this  was 
suggested  by  the  needs  of  a  poor  insane  clergyman,  as  above  hinted, 
and  had  been  bequeathed  specially  to  such  cases,  its  benefits  would 
have  been  more  pronounced. 

M W ,  one  of  the  patients  of  note,  died  this  year,  after  a 

residence  of  more  than  twenty  years  in  the  Asylum.  He  was 
admitted  first  in  1841.  A  blacksmith  by  trade  and  of  gigantic 
stature  [six  feet  four  inches  in  height],  he  became  insane  in  con- 
sequence of  a  blow  upon  the  head,  while  at  work  near  Lowell,  Mass. 
He  was  not  maniacal,  but  on  the  contrary  labored  under  a  constant 
apprehension  of  being  injured;  and  for  the  first  two  or  three  months 
after  admission  would  cry  in  the  most  puerile  manner,  at  the  most 
trivial  causes,  such  behavior  being  almost  ludicrous  when  observed 
in  connection  with  his  giant  size.  He  then  became  actively  suicidal 
for  a  time.  A  year  after  admission  he  became  violently  maniacal 
and  destructive  to  property  and  clothing,  and  this  phase  lasted 
nearly  through  the  second  year. 


I40  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

About  the  beginning  of  his  third  year  he  began  to  improve, 
and  conceived  the  idea  of  making  a  wooden  man,  and  being  natur- 
ally ingenious  and  accustomed  to  the  use  of  tools,  he  was  indulged 
in  his  fancy.  The  making  of  this  image  occupied  him  many 
weeks.  "A  queer  thing  it  is,  too,"  says  the  record;  and  it  is  much 
to  be  regretted  that  it  has  not  been  preserved.  Soon  after,  he 
became  wild  and  troublesome  again,  then  comparatively  docile,  but 
still  unsettled.  At  this  stage  he  was  removed;  and  for  a  year  and  a 
half  was  kei)t  closely  confined  in  a  room,  by  the  authorities  of 
the  town  where  he  belonged.  He  was  then  returned  to  the  Asylum 
where  he  remained  until  his  decease.  Seven  months  after  his 
return  it  is  recorded  that  he  was  allowed  about  the  premises  on 
parole,  and  was  employed  in  the  care  of  the  dairy.  From  this  time 
on  he  was  never  again  obliged  to  be  closely  confined,  and  hence- 
forth Moses  became  a  marked  character.  He  was  childish  in 
many  things  and  delighted  in  fantastic  ornaments,  and  display 
of  watch  chain  with  odd  appendages;  but  ingenious,  industrious,  and 
always  good  natured  and  obliging.  He  had  also  natural  executive 
ability,  and  nothing  so  much  pleased  him  as  the  managing  of  two  or 
three  fellow  inmates,  willing  workers,  but  passive,  in  the  accomp- 
lishment of  some  piece  of  work  for  which  he  felt  himself  responsible, 
and  in  which  he  could  lead  and  direct.  His  quaint  expressions  were 
always  to  the  point,  showing  at  bottom  strong  common  sense  and 
keen  comprehension.  When  the  capped  granite  posts  at  the  foot  of 
the  front  door  steps  were  erected,  on  the  rebuilding  of  the  center 
building  after  the  fire  in  1862,  Moses  surveyed  them  for  a  few  min- 
utes in  silence,  then  broke  into  a  laugh  and  walked  away,  wagging 
his  head  and  saying  "  Well  now,  everybody  that  comes  '11  think  the 
Doctor  is  dead,"  which  in  his  view  would  be  a  huge  joke.  His 
parole  grew  unlimited  and  in  the  last  ten  years  extended  to  menage- 
ries, circusses,  and  attendance  upon  the  county  fairs.  When  dressed 
in  his  Sunday  and  holiday  suit,  with  tall  hat,  he  was  certainly  a 
marked  personage.  He.  died  of  pulmonary  consumption,  but 
resisted  the  progress  of  the  malady  with  the  most  invincible  courage, 
unwilling  even  to  admit  he  was  ill  until  compelled  from  sheer 
inability  longer  to  keep  about,  and  bemg  confined  to  the  bed  in 
reality  but  a  few  days.  His  affection  for  the  Asylum  was  great,  and 
he  would  have  felt  at  home  nowhere  else.  His  case  shows  that 
chronic  insanity  even  is  not  without  some  mitigations,  and  that 
it  is  not,  as  is  sometimes  affirmed,  always  a  ''living  death."  Not 
only  was  a  fair  measure  of  enjoyment  his,  but  the  little  world  in 
which  he  moved,  at  least,  was  the  better  for  his  having  lived  in  it. 


RECORD  OF  1 865. 


THE  first  action  of  the  Board  in  relation  to  the  work  of  this 
year,    was  taken   at  their    February   meeting,    when   it  was 
Voted^     "  To  authorize  the  superintendent  to  erect  a  suitable 
barn  at  the  Newman  Allen  place,  in  a  proper  location," 

At  a  special  meeting  on  the  fourth  Tuesday  in  May  the  salary  of 
the  superintendent  was  taken  into  consideration,  and  it  was  Voted 
"  To  pay  him  fifteen  hundred  dollars  a  year  for  his  services,  to  date 
from  August  ist,  1864. 

It  may  here  be  remarked  that  no  change  had  been  made  in 
the  salary  of  this  official  since  November  ist,  1842,  when  it  was 
fixed  at  twelve  hundred  dollars.  Prior  to  that  it  was  one  thousand 
dollars. 

The  changed  values  of  all  comodities  as  well  as  labor,  by  reason 
of  the  disturbed  state  of  the  country  at  this  time,  very  much 
deranged  all  ordinary  calculations,  and  occasioned  difficulties  of 
management  that  were  felt  by  the  Trustees  with  unusual  anxiety. 

"Much  skill,"  say  they  in  their  Report,  "has  been  required  to 
manage  the  financial  affairs  of  the  establishment  so  that  the  patients 
would  have  all  of  their  usual  comforts  and  facilities  for  recovery,  and 
at  the  same  time  to  confine  the  expenditures  to  the  income  which  we 
derive  from  the  various  sources.  The  superintendent  deserves  much 
credit  for  the  success  with  which  he  has  managed  this  difficult  part 
of  his  labors.  The  large  farm  has  been  of  great  service  in  sustain- 
ing the  Institution,  as  well  as  in  affording  the  means  of  cure  for 
many  of  the  male  patients. 

"  In  an  institution  of  this  kind  there  must  necessarily  be  a  large 
outlay  for  repairs  and  improvements. 

"  One  of  the  old  barns  had  become  so  decayed  as  to  render 
it  unsafe  for  occupation  any  longer.  It  was  therefore  wholly 
removed  to  make  room  for  a  large,  new,  and  substantial  one,  which 
has  been  erected  this  season,  containing  many  improvements  upon 
the  old  building." 


142  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

The  cost  of  the  new  one  was  $2,500.  The  resident  number 
of  inmates  August  ist  this  year  had  reached  four  hundred  and 
eighty.  One  hundred  and  forty-four  were  received,  and  one  hun- 
dred and  twenty-two  were  discharged,  during  the  year  immediately 
preceding. 

The  Superintendent,  in  his  report,  discourses  as  follows  upon  the 
subject  of  insanity: 

"The  great  increase  of  nervous  diseases  in  this  country,  which 
to  say  the  least,  predispose  to  insanity,  makes  it  necessary  to  allude 
to  some  of  their  causes  in  order  to  prevent  their  occurrence. 

"The  want  of  proper  or  suitable  mental  and  physical  education, 
frequently  lays  the  foundation,  and  prepares  the  way  for  insanity. 
Physical  education  is  all  important  for  mental  as  well  as  physical 
labor.  For  any  great  mental  exertion  it  is  desirable  that  a  person 
should  have  a  sound  mind  in  a  sound  body;  whatever  promotes  the 
general  health  also  promotes  the  strength  and  energy  of  the  mind. 
Without  health  it  is  nearly  as  difficult  to  perform  mental  labor 
for  any  considerable  time  as  to  perform  physical  labor  without  it.  A 
proper  exercise  of  the  mental  or  physical  system  imparts  strength, 
energy  and  power  to  each;  and  each  system  is  weakened  by  the 
excessive  use,  or  by  the  neglect  of  exercise  of  either. 

"The  youthful  brain  should  not  be  over  taxed  with  studies 
which  require  too  much  mental  labor.  On  the  other  hand  a  judicious 
mental  exercise  is  necessary  for  healtny  mental  exertion.  Avoiding 
physical  exercise  will  never  strengthen  the  physical  system,  so 
the  unemploying  of  the  mind  will  never  qualify  it  for  healthy 
exercise. 

"One  predisposing  cause  of  insanity  is  the  excessive  mental 
labor  in  the  process  of  education.  It  is  rare  that  insanity  is  induced 
in  childhood,  but  over  exertion  produces  that  morbid  condition  of 
the  brain  and  nervous  system,  that  sooner  or  later  will  result  in 
insanity  by  apparently  slight  and  insufficient  causes.  It  is  a  fortu- 
nate circumstance  that  most  children  have  not  sufficient  fondness  for 
study  to  have  their  minds  or  brain  receive  any  injury.  But  there 
are  cases  in  which  excessive  mental  labor  proves  injurious  if  not 
fatal. 

"Uncontrolled  desires,  and  unrestrained  indulgence  of  temper, 
will  often  prepare  the  young  for  that  disordered  state  of  the  brain 
which  strongly  predisposes  to  insanity. 

"One  great  preventive  of  insanity  is  the  forming  of  correct 
habits.  A  person  of  a  peevish,  fretful  habit,  and  inclined  to  look  on 
the  dark  side  of  things,  is  far  more  liable  to  become  insane  than  one 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1865.  143 

of  a  cheerful  and  hopeful  disposition,  who  makes  the  best  of  every 
condition  of  Hfe. 

"Another  preventive  of  diseases  of  the  nervous  system  and 
insanity,  is  a  temperate  and  regular  mode  of  life.  Regular  sleep, 
regular  meals,  plain  nutritious  food,  and  plenty  of  exercise  in  the 
open  air  are  necessary,  and  whatever  tends  to  promote  the  general 
physical  health  also  directly  tends  to  prevent  nervous  diseases 
and  insanity.  The  great  desire  of  many  to  embark  in  some  active 
and  even  hazardous  speculation,  is  a  fruitful  source  of  insanity.  To 
engage  in  some  regular  and  legitimate  business,  which  will  ultimately 
result  in  success,  is  too  slow  a  process  for  their  ideas  of  acquiring 
a  fortune.  They  must  engage  in  something  which  will  cause  so 
much  hope,  fear,  anxiety  and  difficulty,  as  to  result  in  sleepless 
nights,  and  frequently  to  complete  failure  of  the  enterprise.  Disap- 
pointment and  mortified  pride  follow  in  the  train,  and  the  mind 
is  strongly  predisposed  to  mental  disorder. 

"Among  the  agents  which  produce  insanity,  that  of  intemper- 
ance has  a  prominent  place.  Opium  and  tobacco  also  have  their 
victims.  Intemperance  is  one  of  those  sins  which  are  vital  upon  the 
children  of  succeeding  generations.  It  frequently  produces  insanity 
in  the  next  generation,  when  the  parent  escapes  it.  The  children  of 
intemperate  parents  who  escape  insanity  are  frequently  afflicted 
with  epilepsy,  idiocy  or  some  mental  obliquity  or  vicious  propensity. 

"Persons  predisposed  to  insanity  should  avoid  everything  that 
has  a  tendency  to  impair  the  general  health,  such  as  want  of  physical 
exercise  in  the  open  air,  passing  too  much  time  in  warm  rooms, 
sleeping  on  feathers,  engaging  in  employment  that  will  not  allow 
of  sufficient  sleep  at  proper  hours,  and  allowing  themselves  to  be  too 
much  disturbed  by  the  unpleasant  trials  of  life. 

"  The  patient  after  recovering  from  insanity,  should  carefully 
avoid  the  causes  which  produced  his  disorder.  But  there  is  a  class 
of  unfortunate  cases,  who,  after  having  recovered  and  returned 
home,  find  the  same  causes  operating  which  produced  their  disorder. 
The  pecuniary  embarrassments,  the  loss  of  dear  relatives,  the 
enfeebled  health,  the  domestic  afflictions  of  various  kinds  which 
surround  them,  continue  to  operate,  and  unless  they  are  fortified 
against  these  trials  their  minds  will  be  apt  to  succumb  to  the  outward 
pressure  which  produced  their  former  insanity." 

Income,  $66,164.93 

Expenditure,  67,358.37 


Balance  short,  August  ist,  $1,193.44 


144  ANNALS    OF    THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

The    following    officers   were,    at    the   annual    meeting,    chosen 
for  the  year  ensuing: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
F.  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 
L  X.  Haywood,  Farmer. 
Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  }         ,  ,      .  . 

TVT    T-k   1)  (  Assistant  Phvsicians. 

N.  D.  Rumsey,  ) 


RECORD   OF    1866. 


AT  the  February  meeting  of  the  Board  the  question  of  provid- 
ing shelter  on  a  large  scale  for  the  storage  and  working  up 
of  fuel,  was  considered,  and  it  was  Voted,  "  That  the  super- 
intendent erect  a  suitable  wood-house  on  the  west  side  of  the  road." 
There  was  accordingly  this  season  erected  a  building  100  feet  long 
by  40  feet  broad,  open  upon  one  side,  and  capable  of  containing 
a  whole  year's  supply  of  wood. 

The  cost  of  this  was  $1,500,  and  it  was  situated  south  of  the 
Marsh  building. 

At  the  meeting  in  June  the  water  question  again  came  under 
consideration  and  it  was  Voted,  "To  lay  a  lead  pipe  from  a  spring 
on  the  south  side  of  the  Allen  lot  [farm]  to  the  Asylum." 

In  their  report  of  this  year  the  Trustees  say,  "Few  things  con- 
tribute more  to  the  health  and  comfort  of  the  insane  than  an  abun- 
dance of  pure  spring  water.  We  had  a  good  supply,  but  the  bursting 
or  rather  breaking  of  the  iron  pipe  last  winter,  which  conveys  the 
water  from  the  [Wells]  spring  to  the  Asylum,  during  a  spell  of 
severe  cold  weather,  caused  such  an  inconvenience  for  a  short  time 
that  we  concluded  to  lay  another  pipe  from  another  source,  which 
yields  a  large  quantity  of  excellent  water.  It  would  be  singular 
if  both  sources  should  fail  at  the  same  time." 

By  the  constant  increase  of  inmates,  the  requisitions  for  water 
and  air  become  always  the  most  pressing  necessities.  We  have 
already  referred  to  the  demand  for  additional  ventilation,  and  now 
the  added  water  supply  claims  attention;  and  also  the  experience  of 
the  last  winter  demonstrates  the  undesirability  of  a  dependence  upon 
a  single  source.  Two  points  are  therefore  this  year  made — the 
securing  of  an  added  and  an  independent  supply. 

Four  hundred  and  ninety-three  patients  are  reported  in  the 
Asylum  August  ist.  The  movement  of  population  shows  one  hun- 
dred and  sixty-one  admitted,  and  one  hundred  and  forty-eight  dis- 
charged in  the  twelve  months  last  past. 


146  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

Dr.  Rockwell  in  his  report  observes,  "The  farther  we  depart 
from  the  simple  customs  and  habits  of  our  ancestors  the  more 
we  shall  prepare  for  the  introduction  of  this  disorder.  When  we 
take  a  view  of  our  country,  and  witness  its  advancement  in  wealth, 
civilization  and  refinement,  the  many  powerful  temptations  to 
embark  in  some  hazardous  enterprise;  the  sudden  accumulation  and 
loss  of  property  which  frequently  happens,  the  freedom  of  our  insti- 
tutions, by  which  the  humblest  citizen  may  aspire  to  the  highest 
office  in  the  gift  of  the  people;  the  fierce  and  persevering  strifes 
which  are  everywhere  carried  on,  both  in  the  accumulation  of 
wealth  and  obtaining  political  distinction,  and  the  many  trials  of 
disappointment  and  mortification . to  which  all  are  liable;  who  can 
doubt  the  many  active  and  operating  causes  to  increase  this  disease 
in  our  country  ?  Persons  of  all  classes  and  stations  in  life  are  liable 
to  this  affliction.  Those  who  are  now  rejoicing  in  the  blessings  of 
health  and  reason   may  soon  be  afflicted  with  this  severe  calamity." 

Income  for  the  year,  $76,289.19 

Expenditure,  76,904.17 


Balance  short,  $614.98 

The  following  officers  were  chosen  this  year: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE   BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 
Ira  X.  Haywood,  Farmer. 
Abigail  Rockwell,  Matron. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr. 


T.    -n    T^T-  r  Assistant  Physicians. 

E.  B.  Nims,  .    )  -^ 

About'one  hundred  square  rods  of  land  was  this  year  purchased 
of  Henry  F.  Smith,  in  immediate  contiguity  to  the  Asylum  cemetery, 
at  a  cost  of  $250. 


RECORD  OF  1867. 


THE  experiences  of  the  last  year  in  respect  to  the  water  supply, 
though  temporarily  bridged  over,  seem  to  have  resulted  in 
a  conviction  that  the  source  hitherto  depended  upon,  even 
when  supplemented  by  the  smaller  spring  upon  the  farm,  as  detailed 
in  last  Report,  was  inadequate.  This  year  therefore  the  Asylum 
secured  of  James  H.  Capen  a  second  supply,  equal  in  volume 
and  quality  of  water  to  that  purchased  of  Eben  Wells  in  1845,  which 
since  that  time  has  been  principally  depended  upon.  These  two, 
the  Wells  and  the  Capen  springs,  the  latter  some  half  a  mile  beyond 
the  former,  in  the  same  direction  from  the  Asylum,  constitute  at 
present  the  dependence  of  the  Institution  for  this  most  essential  ele- 
ment; and  it  is  safe  to  assert  that  so  far  as  abundance  of  pure  water 
and  air  go,  no  asylum  in  this  country  is  better  off. 

The  reports  of  the  officers  of  this  year  show  five  hundred  and 
eleven  patients  in  the  Asylum  August  ist;  one  hundred  and  forty- 
three  having  been  received,  and  one  hundred  and  twenty-five  having 
been  discharged  since  the  previous  report. 

The  Superintendent  states,  "  It  is  gratifying  to  know  that  we 
have  accommodations  for  all  of  the  insane  of  this  state  that  require 
hospital  treatment.  With  the  exception  of  one  year,  when  part 
of  the  buildings  were  destroyed  by  fire,  we  have  not  refused  to 
receive  any  patient  of  this  state,  whatever  might  have  been  the  con- 
dition of  the  patient." 

The  income  this  year  was,  $78,938.29 

The  expenditure,  78,450.11 


Leaving  on  hand  August  ist,  $488.18 

The  following  officers  were  chosen  at  the  annual  meeting: 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor, 


148  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

■  •  W.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 

Ira  X.  Haywood,  Farmer. 
Frances  M.  Palmer  Matron. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  ) 
E  B  Nims  I  ^^^istant  Physicians. 

'' During  the  past  year,"  writes  the  superintendent,  "the  former 
matron,  Miss  Abbie  Rockwell,  who  had  so  ably  and  faithfully 
labored  to  promote  the  comfort  and  welfare  of  the  patients  and  the 
best  interests  of  the  Institution,  died  of  pneumonia.  Miss  Frances 
M.  Palmer  has  been  appointed  in  her  place,  and  has  thus  far  filled 
it  in  a  manner  to  gain  the  approbation  and  confidence  of  the  officers 
and  friends  of  the  Institution." 


RECORD  OF  1868. 


EXTENDING  along  the  main  road  to  Newfane  upon  its  western 
side  and  to  the  north  of  the  Marsh  building,  stood  a  row  of 
houses  owned  and  occupied  by  old  residents  from  the 
opening  of  the  Asylum  until  now.  They  were  four  in  number,  and 
all,  together  with  their  gardens  attached,  occupied  an  area  of  but 
small  extent,  not  exceeding  three  acres,  with  some  six  hundred  feet 
of  frontage.  The  whole  settlement  together  was  known  as  "Pike- 
ville,"  from  the  name  of  the  oldest  inhabitant,  Houghton  Pike. 

Three  of  these  small  proprietary  free-holds  were  this  year  pur- 
chased [those  nearest  to  the  Asylum  buildings]  of  Willard  Edwards, 
Francis  T.  Green,  Mary  A.  and  William  Knowlton  respectively,  for 
the  aggregate  sum  of  $5,400. 

Apart  from  the  purchase  of  these  additions  to  the  real  estate,  no 
extra  outlays  were  this  year  incurred,  for  the  very  good  reason  that 
the  Trustees  had  no  funds  to  appropriate  in  any  direction  outside  of 
current  expenses,  as  appears  from  their  report,  in  the  following  quo- 
tation: 

"  The  high  price  of  labor  and  of  most  of  the  necessaries  of  life, 
has  continued  through  the  year;  but  by  skilful  management,  with 
the  aid  of  a  large  farm,  we  have  been  able  to  furnish  the  necessaries 
and  comforts  of  life,  and  the  means  of  restoration  of  the  patients, 
with  the  regular  income  of  the  Institution." 

The  report  of  the  Superintendent  shows  five  hundred  and  fifteen 
inmates  in  the  Asylum  August  ist,  one  hundred  and  thirty-five 
having  been  received  and  one  hundred  and  thirty-one  having  been 
discharged  since  the  date  of  the  preceding  report. 

The  income  received  was,  $79,554.28 

The  expenditure,  78,943.72 


Leaving  balance,  August  ist,  $610.56 


150  ANNALS    OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

Choice  was  made  of  the  following  officers  at  the  annual  meeting 
this  year: 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer, 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
F.  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

W.  H.   Rockwell,    Superintendent  and   Physician. 

I.  X.  Haywood,  Farmer. 

Frances  M.  Palmer,  Matron. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.  ) 

T.    T~»   TVT-  r  Assistant  Physicians. 

E.  B.  Nims,  )  ^ 


RECORD  OF  1869. 


THE  constantly  increasing  number  of  residents,  since  the  rebuild- 
ing of  the  Asylum  after  the  fire  of  1862,  has  been  noticed. 
The  pressure  for  additional  room  becoming  more  and  more 
felt  each  year  led  to  new  plans  for  enlargement.  The  laundry  built 
in  1852,  which  was  thirty-two  by  thirty  six  feet  in  dimensions,  and 
two  stories  in  height,  had  become  insufficient  for  the  wants  of  the 
constantly  increasing  household,  but  being  connected  with  wings 
occupied  by  patients,  at  both  ends,  could  be  made  most  serviceable 
in  that  connection,  by  subdividing  its  interior  into  apartments  for 
patients  and  by  extending  the  central  hall  of  the  female  infirmary 
through  this,  wards  eighty-six  feet  long  could  thus  be  obtained, 
which  were  very  desirable. 

To  effect  this  it  was  determined  to  erect  a  building  to  the  west- 
ward of  the  female  infirmary,  its  front  on  line  with  the  rear  wall 
of  the  last  mentioned  building,  and  its  rear  line  forty  feet  to  the 
north.  The  length  of  this  building  was  seventy  feet,  and  it  occupied 
the  place  of  the  wood  store-house  for  fuel  and  other  uses,  mentioned 
as  fitted  up  for  this  purpose  in  1859.  This  was  constructed  of 
brick,  two  stories  in  height,  and  has  served  to  the  present  time 
for  laundry,  sewing  rooms,  and  steward's  department. 

The  cost  of  its  erection  and  fitting  up,  and  washing  machinery 
with  new  boiler  and  engine,  and  that  of  reconstructing  the  old 
laundry  into  wards  and  rooms  for  patients,  was  $12,000.00 

By  these  changes,  rooms  were  provided  for  about  thirty  additional 
patients. 

The  following  officers  were  chosen  at  the  annual  meeting,  for  the 
yiear  ensuing: 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor. 


152  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 

Ira  X.  Haywood,  Farmer. 

Frances  M.  Palmer,  Matron. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.  ) 

D.  H.  Lovejoy,  ]  Assistant  Physicians, 

The  income  this  year  was,  $81,472.07 

The  expenditure,  80,028.63 


Balance  on  hand,  ^1,443.44 

The  reports  of  the  Trustees  and  Superintendent  show  a  year 
devoted  to  the  every-day  duties  of  asylum  life,  without  any  notable 
incidents. 

The  state  commissioner  this  year  reports  his  observations  as 
follows: — 

"  I  have  in  every  instance  found  the  Superintendent  at  his  post, 
constantly  watching  and  guarding  his  trust.  His  assistant  physicians 
are  gentlemen  of  kind  and  benevolent  natures,  well-fitted  for  the 
place.  The  matron  and  all  the  help,  so  far  as  I  am  able  to  discover, 
are  kind,  patient  and  industrious,  doing  all  in  their  power  for  the 
comfort  and  benefit  of  those  under  their  care.  I  have  never  been 
able  to  discover  any  deficiency  in  the  quantity  or  quality  of  their 
food.  There  was  always  as  much  variety  as  could  reasonably  be 
expected  or  required  for  the  health  of  the  patients." 

At  the  annual  meeting  this  year  it  was  Voted,  "That  Daniel  Kel- 
logg be  employed  to  investigate  the  legality  of  using  the  water  of  a 
spring  on  our  own  land." 

This  was  a  question  arising  in  connection  with  the  purchase  of 
the  Capen  spring  in  1867,  it  being  claimed  that  its  use  by  the  Asy- 
lum would  be  to  the  detriment  of  a  water  privilege  depended  upon 
by  parties  below,  to  which  it  doubtless  contributed. 

There  were  admitted  this  year  one  hundred  and  twenty-four, 
discharged  one  hundred  and  twenty  eight;  five  hundred  and  eleven 
being  the  resident  number  at  date  of  the  annual  report. 


RECORD   OF    1870. 


IN  March  of  this  year  the  Trustees  Voted,  ''  To  remove  the  wood- 
house  [erected  in  1866]  from  its  present  site  [south  of  Marsh 
building]  to  the  lot  purchased  of  Mary  A.  Knowlton  in 
1868. 

"  Also,  Voted,  To  build  a  new  house  for  the  farmer  of  the  Insti- 
tution, on  the  same  site  as  where  the  old  one  now  stands." 

This  constituted  the  principal  work  of  improvement  this  year. 

On  the  29th  day  of  July,  1869,  Mr.  A.  H.  Bull,  a  resident  of 
Brattleboro,  died,  leaving  an  estate  of  $130,000,  which,  by  will  dated 
June  25th,  1867,  made  the  Vermont  Asylum  residuary  legatee  of  the 
bulk  of  this  property,  after  che  Hartford  Retreat,  in  event  of  the 
latter  declining  or  forfeiting  the  same.  The  conditions  of  the  will 
were  such  that  neither  institution  could  afford  to  accept  the  bequest, 
and  moreover  the  validity  of  the  will  was  contested  by  the  heirs,  and 
the  widow's  provision  waived  by  her.  At  this  juncture  the  Trustees 
took  the  following  action  thereupon,  under  date  of  July  7th,  1870. 

'^  Resohed,  that  whereas,  A.  H.  Bull,  late  of  Brattleboro,  deceased, 
in  and  by  his  last  will  and  testament  made  the  Trustees  of  the  Insane 
Retreat  at  Hartford,  Ct.,  residuary  legatee,  in  trust  for  certain 
purposes  therein  named,  and  in  case  of  the  non-acceptance  by  said 
Insane  Retreat  made  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane  residuary 
legatee  subject  to  the  same  trusts,  which  said  will  has  been  allowed 
in  the  probate  court,  and  is  now  pending  in  the  county  court  by 
appeal  of  the  heirs  at  law.     Now  therefore — 

"  I.  Resolved,  That  we  will  do  nothing  toward  the  establishment 
of  said  will,  and  will  pay  no  part  of  the  expenses  thereof. 

*'  2.  That  if  said  will  be  established,  and  said  trust  shall  fall  upon 
the  Vermont  Asylum  by  the  non-acceptance  of  the  Insane  Retreat 
at  Hartford,  we  will  not  accept  the  same,  under  the  burdens  and 
duties  therein  imposed  by  said  will." 

The  provisions  by  which  the  legacy  was  encumbered  were  in 
brief,  that  the  income  should  be  annually  devoted  to  "  Such  indigent 
clergymen  of    the  Orthodox   Congregational  or  Presbyterian  faith, 


154  ANNALS    OF  THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

professing  the  Calvinistic  doctrines,  as  have  labored  faithfully  in 
the  cause  of  Christ,  and  have  become  so  far  advanced  and  infirm  as 
to  be  unable  to  support  themselves  by  further  labor  in  said  cause, 
and  have  become  insane;  and  also  the  support  at  said  Retreat  [or 
Asylum]  of  the  wives  of  such  clergymen,  always  giving  preference 
to  such  as  have  labored  in  the  missionary  cause,  provided  that 
not  more  than  five  dollars  per  week  shall  ever  be  expended  for 
the  support  of  one  such  person  at  said  Retreat  [or  Asylum],  pro- 
vided, also,  that  no  distinction  shall  be  made  between  clergymen 
of  different  States." 

The  Trustees  say  in  their  annual  report  that  "  At  no  time  since 
the  Institution  was  first  opened,  has  it  been  in  a  more  prosperous 
condition,  or  had  so  great  facilities  for  the  benefit  of  its  inmates. 

"  The  improvement  of  the  older  buildings    and  the  erection  of 
new  ones  have  increased  the  expenditures  the  past  year. 
The  whole  income  has  been,  $85,281.72 

The  whole  expenditures  have  been,  83,163.49 


Leaving  a  balance  in  favor  of  the  Asylum  of,  $2,118.23 

"  Many  improvements  are  yet  to  be  made,  most  of  which  must 
be  postponed  to  the  next  year." 

The  number  of  patients  in  the  Asylum  August  ist  of  this  year 
reaches  its  maximum  in  the  whole  history  of  the  Institution,  stand- 
ing at  five  hundred  and  eighteen.  One  hundred  and  twenty  were 
received  and  one  hundred  and  thirteen  discharged,  during  the  fiscal 
year. 

The  Superintendent,  in  his  report,  dwells  somewhat  upon  the 
great  principles  of  treatment,  and  emphasizes  particularly  the  value 
of  occupation,  as  follows: 

"  By  proper  employment  the  maniac  expends  his  excitement  to 
some  useful  purpose,  rather  than  in  noise,  violence,  and  mischief, 
and  annoying  his  fellow  inmates.  The  attention  necessary  for  the 
melancholic  to  perform  any  kind  of  labor  withdraws  his  mind  from 
his  gloomy  forebodings,  and  serves  to  awaken  more  rational  views 
of  life.  The  monomaniac  forgets  his  delusions  in  the  occupation  of 
his  mind  on  more  rational  subjects,  and  will  eventually  find  his 
vagaries  supplanted  by  mora  correct  ideas." 

While  the  foregoing  observations  must  be  recognized  as  true,  the 
reader  must  not  suppose  that  the  practical  application  of  these  prin- 
ciples can  be  demonstrated  in  all  cases.  Extreme  cases  of  excite- 
ment, depression,  or  delusion  constitute  exceptions  to  the  rule,  for 
reasons  that  are  obvious  on  reflection.      And  while  this  qualification 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEAR  1870.  155 

must  be  interpolated  it  is  but  just  to  say,  particularly  as  we  are  now 
quoting  from  the  last  report  made  in  full  by  Dr.  Rockwell,  Sr..  that 
to  him,  more  than  to  any  other  superintendent  during  his  lengthened 
period  of  practical  work,  is  due,  beyond  question,  the  credit  of  insti- 
tuting and  developing  the  labor  question,  both  in  its  curative  and  its 
economic  aspects  and  results.  He  fully  believed  in  it,  and  carried 
it  out  with  the  courage  of  his  full  convictions,  to  the  end  of  his 
official  connection  with  the  Asylum. 

At  the  annual  meeting  the  officers  of  the  last  year  were  re- 
elected for  the  year  ensuing. 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 

Ira  X.  Haywood,  Farmer. 

Frances  M.  Palmer,  Matron. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  ) 

p.   TT   y        .    ^  y  Assistant  Physicians. 

At  the  November  meeting  the  Trustees  Fo^ed,  "To  purchase 
Henry  H.  Rice's  farm  at  a  reasonable  price." 

This  was  situated  in  contiguity  with  land  already  belonging  to 
the  Asylum  estate,  and  added  especially  to  the  pasturage.  It  con- 
tained seventy  acres  and  cost  $3,500.  The  cost  of  the  farm-house 
erected  this  year  was  $2,500. 


RECORD  OF  i87T-'72. 


BY  An  Act  of  the  General  Assembly  of  the  state  of  Vermont, 
approved  November  ist,  1870,  it  was  made  the  duty  of  the 
Trustees  and  Superintendent  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the 
Insane,  to  make  their  reports  thereafter  biennially,  in  conformity 
with  the  change  in  the  State  from  the  annual  to  the  biennial  system, 
and  such  reports  were  henceforth  to  be  addressed  to  the  Governor, 
and  published  in  the  volume  of  State  Officers'  Reports,  instead  of 
with  that  of  the  Auditor  of  Accounts,  as  since  1844. 

In  chronicling  the  future  annals  of  the  Asylum  therefore,  it  will 
be  most  convenient,  as  well  as  most  satisfactory,  to  consider  the 
results  of  each  brace  of  years  together,  as  the  statistics  are  thus 
summed  up  in  association  in  each  biennial  report. 

A  current  record  of  the  doings  of  the  Trustees,  and  of  the  oper- 
ations of  the  Asylum  each  year,  will  however  be  continued  as  here- 
tofore, as  the  change  in  the  State  system  only  affects  the  Institution 
in  respect  to  the  requirement  noted. 

In  March,  1871,  the  purchase  of  David  Miller  of  the  Pike  home- 
stead for  $2,600  gave  final  possession  to  the  Asylum  of  all  the  prop- 
erties referred  to  in  1868,  and  jointly  known  as  "Pikeville." 

At  the  annual  meeting  in  August  the  following  officers  were  duly 
elected: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Secretary. 
F.  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

W.  H.   Rockwell,    Superintendent  and  Physician, 

Ira  X.  Haywood,  Farmer. 

Frances  M.  Palmer,  Matron. 

W.  H.  Rockwell,    Jr.,  ,  ,      .  . 

P   TT   rp  V  Assistant  Physicians. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   iSyi-'ya.  157 

.  It  was  Voted,  "That  W.  H.  Rockwell  be  authorized  to  negotiate 
with  Calvin  Weld  and  Isaac  Taft,  on  the  best  terms  for  the  Asylum, 
in  supplying  an  additional  amount  of  water." 

This  action  was  supplementary  to  the  vote  of  August,  1869,  mak- 
ing Daniel  Kellogg  the  agent  of  the  Board  to  determine  certain 
legal  points  in  reference  to  the  use  of  the  Capen  spring. 

A  practical  result  was  promptly  reached  after  the  present  action 
by  the  purchase  [September  5th,  1871 J  of  Calvin  J.  Weld,  of  all  his 
right,  title  and  interest  in  said  spring,  for  a  cash  consideration  of 
$500;  and  [September  nth,  187 1]  •of  Isaac  B.  Taft,  his  right,  title 
and  interest,  for  a  money  consideration  of  $250,  and  a  reservation 
of  "the  right  to  take  from  said  water  sufficient  to  fill  a  half  inch 
pipe,  and  carry  the  same  to  his  house  or  elsewhere." 

The  like  reservation  was  also  made  to  James  H  Capen,  when 
the  spring  was  purchased  of  him  in  1867,  the  cash  consideration 
being  nominal,  and  supplemented  at  this  date  [September  nth, 
1 871]  by  a  deed  conveying  right  of  way  through  his  land  for  the 
aqueduct,  also  at  a  nominal  consideration. 

The  like  right  of  water-way  through  land  of  James  A.  Capen  was 
also  negotiated  for,  and  purchased  from  his  executors,  for  the  sum 
of  $50;  and  thus  was  secured  the  way  for  laying  the  three-inch  iron 
pipe  from  this  spring  to  the  Asylum,  which  latter  was  immediately 
procured  of  B.  S.  Benson  &  Sons  of  New  York,  at  a  cost  of  $3,375.44- 

Following  these  important  negotiations,  the  estate  of  the  late 
James  A.  Chase,  lying  in  contiguity  to  the  Wells  farm  purchased  in 
1853-4,  embracing  some  twenty  acres,  was  purchased  November  3rd, 
187 1,  of  the  executors  and  heirs,  at  a  cost  of  $3,075. 

The  year  1872  affords  an  unusual  record.  It  is  memorable 
especially  for  unlocked  for  changes.  Other  events  that  were  to 
some  extent  anticipated,  also  reached  their  culminating  point  this 
year.  It  is  seldom  that  the  administration  of  the  internal  affairs  of  an 
institution,  continues  so  long  without  a  change  in  the  chief  executive. 
For  near  thirty-six  years  had  Dr.  Rockwell  conducted  the  affairs 
of  the  Asylum,  both  professional  and  financial,  with  signal  ability, 
and  with  great  success,  as  the  preceding  annals  show.  Neverthe- 
less his  labors  were  about  to  close,  in  a  manner  as  unexpected  as 
painful.  On  the  loth  of  May  of  this  year  he  was  overturned  and 
thrown  from  his  carriage  as  he  was  leaving  the  Asylum  for  a  drive, 
and  sustained  a  fracture  of  the  neck  of  the  thigh  bone,  together 
with  a  severe  concussion  of  the  system,  which  was  succeeded  by 


158  ANNALS   OF    THE   VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

prostration  from  which  he  never  fully  rallied,  and  for  the  remaining 
eighteen  months  of  his  life  he  was  wholly  confined  to  his  bed,  in  a 
gradual  decline. 

By  this  unlooked-for  occurrence  the  charge  of  the  Asylum  at 
once  devolved  upon  his  son,  then  senior  assistant,  who  conducted  as 
acting  superintendent  the  affairs  of  the  Institution  for  the  remainder 
of  the  current  year. 

At  the  annual  meeting  in  August  Dr.  Rockwell,  Sr.,  tendered  his 
resignation  as  superintendent,  by  reason  of  the  disability  detailed. 
It  was  accepted  as  inevitable;*  and  the  following  expression  of 
the  feeling  of  the  Board  on  this  occasion,  prepared  by  Ex-Gov.  Hol- 
brook,  chairman,  was  submitted  and  ordered  to  be  recorded. 

"  Whereas,  Dr.  Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  having  tendered  his  resigna- 
tion of  the  office  of  superintendent  of  the  Vermont  Asylum,  on 
account  of  advanced  years,  and  particularly  of  the  injuries  occasioned 
by  the  severe  accident  which  happened  to  him  a  few  months  since, 
and  which  he  fears  may  result  in  permanent  infirmities, 

"  It  is  therefore  Resolved  by  the  Trustees  of  said  Asylum,  this 
day  in  full  Board  assembled,  that  while  they  reluctantly  accept 
Dr.  Rockwell's  resignation,  they  hereby  express  their  full  approba- 
tion of  his  past  services  as  superintendent  of  said  Asylum,  and  their 
high  estimate  of  his  unwearied  labors  in  building  up  the  Asylum 
from  its  infancy,  and  carrying  forward  its  interests  and  its  benevolent 
mission  to  the  present  time. 

"And  it  is  further  Resolved,  in  appreciation  of  the  long  and  emi- 
nent services  of  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Rockwell  in  behalf  of  this  Institution, 
and  of  their  benevolent  and  self-sacrificing  labors,  for  the  comfort 
and  care  of  the  many  unfortunate  insane  persons  who  have  found 
asylum  here,  that  the  Board  of  Trustees  do  hereby  tender  to  them  a 
home  at  said  Institution  during  the  remainder  of  their  lives,  and 
during  the  life  of  the  survivor. 

'^Resolved,  that  the  secretary  is  directed  to  furnish  a  copy  of 
these  resolutions  to  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Rockwell." 

The  Trustees  then  proceeded  to  the  election  of  officers,  and  the 
following  were  unanimously  chosen: 

OFFICERS  OF  THE   BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
W,  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.  Secretary. 
F.  Holbrook,  Auditor. 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEAR  S  i87i-'72.  159 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

*W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 
Ira  X.  Haywood,  Farmer. 
Frances  M.  Palmer,  Matron. 
C.   H.  Tenney, 


V  Assistant  Physicians. 


Dr.  John  M.  Clarke  was  selected  to  fill  the  place  of  second  assist- 
ant physician,  and  entered  upon  duty  October  ist  of  this  year. 
The  income  for  the  two  years  preceding 

August  I,  1872,  was,  $160,708.51 

The  expenditure,  i55,77i,73 


Leaving  balance  on  hand  of,  $4,936.78 

The  number  of  patients  in  the  Asylum  August  ist,  1872,  was 
four  hundred  and  ninety-five  ;  two  hundred  and  forty-one  having 
been  admitted  and  two  hundred  and  sixty-four  having  been  dis- 
charged, in  the  two  years  preceding  that  date. 

As  the  time  of  the  legislative  session  of  this  year  approached, 
it  became  evident  that  some  movement  was  contemplated  looking 
to  an  investigation  into  the  management  of  the  Asylum.  Twenty 
years  had  elapsed  since  the  first  inquiry,  which  has  been  detailed 
in  the  record  of  1852.  Nothing  is  truer  than  that  complaints 
are  cumulative,  and  are  gradually  magnified  by  repeated  telling, 
as  is  the  snowball  by  every  turn,  until  at  last  an  irresistible  avalanche 
is  created.  It  is  also  true  that  every  institution  which  in  the  mission 
it  performs  cannot  be  with  propriety  freely  open  to  the  public, 
is  naturally  looked  upon  with  some  degree  of  distrust,  predisposing 
it  to  the  suspicions  of  the  public. 

But  perhaps  it  is  most  likely  to  suffer  from  the  misapprehensions 
or  perversions  of  fact,  imbibed  by  those  under  care,  whose  malady 
instead  of  terminating  in  recovery,  becomes  only  so  far  modified  in 
respect  to  its  violent  manifestations  as  to  permit  a  release  from  cus- 
tody. In  such  cases  the  morbid  impressions  are  circulated  wherever 
the  individual  goes,  and  being  erroneous  conceptions,  or  at  least 
exaggerations  of  fact,  are  nevertheless  believed  more  or  less  fully, 
by  those  who  knew  the  statements  of  the  individual  formerly  to 
be  reliable.  In  many  cases  the  person  is  sincere  in  his  convictions, 
but  his  premises  have  been  misapprehended  ;  and  those  who  know 
him  are  themselves  ignoront  of  the  real  basis  of  delusion,  hence  all 
parties  may  be  honestly  misled. 

*The  salary  of  the  superintendent  was  at  this  date  fixed  at  $2,000  per  annum ; 
that  of  the  farmer  at  $450 ;  that  of  the  matron  at  $300 ;  that  of  the  first  assistant 
physician  at  $1,000 ;  and  that  of  the  second  assistant  at  $600. 


i6o  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

In  other  cases  insanity  more  especially  affects  the  moral  character, 
the  intellectual  faculties  being  little  disturbed  apparently.  In  such, 
perversion  of  facts  becomes  often  a  mania,  especial  delight  is  taken 
in  creating  false  impressions,  and  the  integrity  of  the  intellectual 
processes  lends  to  the  most  perverted  statements  an  element  of 
plausibility  that  is  irrisistible  to  credulous  minds. 

However  this  may  be,  the  investigation  of  this  year  grew  largely 
out  of  the  statements  made  by  two  individuals,  who  had  been 
inmates  of  the  Asylum. 

It  is  not  my  purpose  to  criticise  the  judicial  decisions  in  these 
cases;  they  stand  to  be  judged  of  from  the  individual  standpoint 
of  each  one  who  may  give  them  attention.  But  in  all  such  cases 
there  is  an  inside  history,  which  in  these  in  question  I  feel  bound  to 
give,  as  they  especially  figure  in  the  official  investigation  which 
follows. 

In  1869  [July  24th]  there  was  committed  to  the  Asylum  a  patient 
from  Pennsylvania,  one  Joseph  A.  Stockton,  who  had  been  adjudged 
a  lunatic  under  the  laws  of  that  state,  and  been  placed  under  the 
guardianship  of  a  "Trustee  of  person  and  property,"  and  who  had 
been  in  three  different  asylums  in  Pennsylvania,  viz.,  that  at  West 
Philadelphia  under  charge  of  Dr.  Kirkbride,  that  at  Harrisburg  under 
Dr.  Curwen,  and  that  at  Dixmont  under  Dr.  Reed,  for  a  period 
averaging  two  years  in  each,  before  he  was  committed  to  this.  He 
was  transferred  directly  from  the  Dixmont  asylum  to  Brattleboro. 
Back  of  his  asylum  history  he  had  a  war  record  and  ranked  as 
colonel.  There  were  irregularities  in  this  period  which  could  only 
be  excused  on  the  ground  of  mental  disorder.  His  insanity  was 
due  to  long  continued  habits  of  intemperance,  and  partook  largely 
of  a  disposition  to  exaggerate  and  misrepresent,  while  his  irrepres- 
sible conceit  and  love  of  notoriety  amounted  to  a  monomania  for 
distinction  of  any  kind,  in  which  he  might  play  the  hero.  While  in 
asylums  he  was  ever  restless,  and  always  charging  illegality  in 
the  proceedings.  Facts  upon  which  opinions  were  based  respecting 
his  sanity,  if  pointed  out  to  him,  his  ever  fluent  and  plausible  tongue 
assigned  reasons  for,  either  specious  or  untrue.  He  was  a  disturbing 
element  everywhere.  Outside  of  asylums  always  getting  into  per- 
sonal trouble;  inside,  a  promoter  of  disaffection.  Opinionated, 
he  became  by  reason  of  his  conceited  and  dogmatic  utterances, 
the  oracle  of  those  naturally  of  much  better  talents  than  himself,  but 
whose  disordered  minds  were  overshadowed  by  the  clouds  of 
progressive  dementia,  as  well  as  the  leader  of  those  of  similar 
derangements  to  his  own.     He  made  bold  to  assert  that  many  of  the 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   iS'ji-'72.  i6i 

inmates  were  not  insane,  and  never  failed  to  charge  upon  the  officers 
of  asylums  mercenary  motives.  He  had  a  penchant  for  writing,  and 
while  at  Dixmont  asylum  wrote  a  book  of  verses,  which  in  his 
own  estimation  ranked  with  the  poets  of  classic  authority.  Clandes- 
tine acts  were  much  more  to  his  liking  than  straightforward  ones, 
and  there  was  an  unscrupulous  disregard  of  truth  characteristic  of 
that  state  of  degeneracy  and  demoralization  which  is  consequent 
upon  prolonged  dissipations  and  irregular  life.  If  it  be  questioned 
whether  an  asylum  for  the  insane  is  the  best  place  for  such  a  person, 
that  guardianship  and  restraint  are  needful  cannot  be  doubted; 
nor  will  it  be  disputed  by  alienists  that  such  a  case  is  one  of  mental 
derangement,  affecting  especially  those  attributes  upon  which  moral 
integrity  depends. 

In  the  Asylum  at  the  time  of  the  admission  of  Stockton  was  one 
Peter  H.  Shaw,  an  inmate  of  the  Asylum  for  the  second  time  (since 
March  15,  1869),  whose  somewhat  erratic  history  may  be  briefly 
stated  as  follows:  He  was  a  clergyman  of  the  Presbyterian  faith,  71 
years  of  age,  and  by  the  account  of  a  near  relative  always  possessed 
of  some  peculiar  traits,  "  a  man  of  very  strong  feelings,  and  preju- 
dices equally  strong.  If  he  once  formed,  a  dislike  for  any  person 
or  thing,  he  could  never  overcome  or  subdue  that  feeling;  no  matter 
how  the  circumstances  might  change  he  would  remain  perfectly  in- 
vulnerable." He  lacked,  however,  steadiness  of  purpose,  had  little  real 
efficiency,  and  was  exceedingly  egotistical  and  overbearing.  At  the 
age  of  23  he  was  licensed  and  settled  over  his  first  charge,  and  also 
married.  In  this  year  he  also  sustained  a  pecuniary  disappointment 
by  the  failure  of  an  expected  legacy,  which  seemed  permanently 
to  have  affected  his  mind.  After  being  settled  over  his  first  charge 
six  years,  his  health  somewhat  failed  him;  he  was  troubled  with 
dyspepsia,  and  always  suffered  more  or  less  from  it.  Being  advised 
at  that  time  by  physicians  to  use  as  little  meat  as  possible,  he  then 
espoused  the  theory  of  vegetarianism,  which  he  subsequently  carried 
out  and  perfected  in  his  own  way.  Upon  this  subject  and  pecuniary 
questions,  he  all  his  life  entertained,  to  say  the  least,  "cranky" 
views. 

For  several  years  after  resigning  his  first  charge  he  was  without 
a  settlement,  though  supplying  some  of  the  time  a  pulpit.  Then  he 
secured  a  second  pastorate  which  he  held  for  about  eight  years, 
subsequently  taking  charge  of  a  parish  for  one  year,  and  at  the  age 
of  40  virtually  retiring  from  the  ministry,  never  subsequently  bring- 
ing any  support  to  his  family,  always  declaring  that  "he  could  find 
no  society  adapted  to  himself,  and  that  people  did  not  appreciate 


i62  ANNALS    OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

him;  always  possessing  himself  of  the  feeling  that  he  was  some- 
thing superior  to  any  one  else,  a  feeling  which  he  always  carried  out 
even  to  his  own  family." 

Soon  after  resigning  his  last  charge  he  was  brought  very  low 
with  typhus  fever;  for  two  weeks  lying  with  constant  hiccough,  and 
for  three  months  confined  to  bed.  All  his  natural  traits  seemed 
afterwards  intensified,  and  a  "morbid  inertia"  took  possession  of 
him,  so  far  as  the  ability  to  apply  himself  to  steady  labor  was 
involved.  His  hair  at  that  time  changed,  and  his  whole  appearance 
became  altered.  In  his  family  he  was  irritable  and  arbitrary,  always 
asserting  his  own  rights,  no  one's  opinion  or  judgment  having  any 
weight  with  him.  This  animus  gradually  cut  him  off  from  the  sym- 
pathy of  friends  and  relatives.  His  wife  died  and  he  became  to 
some  extent  a  recluse  in  his  habits,  not  mingling  with  the  family 
with  whom  he  lived  except  at  meals,  and,  except  when  out  taking 
exercise,  remaining  in  the  seclusion  of  his  own  room.  At  the  time 
of  his  wife's  death,  he  had  forbidden  all  her  relatives  the  house. 

Another  disappointment  of  a  cherished  plan  was  the  dissipated 
course  of  a  son  whom  he  designed  should  enter  the  ministry;  and 
henceforth  is  to  be  traced  the  unfortunate  influence  of  this  son  upon 
the  subsequent  life  of  the  parent,  which  continued  up  to  the  time 
of  his  commitment  to  the  Asylum. 

Though  supported  by  the  voluntary  charity  of  relatives  for  many 
years,  he  was  continually  chafed  by  the  manner  in  which  it  was  done. 
He  could  not  understand  why  the  means  necessary  for  that  purpose 
should  not  be  placed  in  his  hands,  to  be  expended  by  himself  in  his 
own  way.  The  demands  of  the  son  referred  to  were  never  resisted 
by  the  father,  but  given  without  discretion  to  the  fullest  extent  of  his 
ability.  Doubtless  the  exactions  of  this  kind,  which  were  never 
ceasing:,  induced  to  some  extent  a  course  of  action  on  the  part  of 
the  father,  which  for  three  or  four  years  preceding  his  confinement, 
he  was  especially  addicted  to,  that  of  borrowing  on  false  pretences 
and  promises  sums  of  money  from  any  and  all  friends,  relatives,  and 
benevolently  disposed  persons,  indiscriminately.  This  became  his 
chief  occupation,  and  so  notorious  did  he  become,  that  even  his 
brother  clergymen  declared  him  "the  most  accomplished  beggar  they 
ever  saw,  and  that  he  was  certainly  laboring  under  a  monomania, 
and  a  fit  subject  for  a  lunatic  asylum." 

His  daily  habit  and  uniform  practice  for  some  time  preceding  his 
commitment  to  the  Asylum,  was  to  take  his  hat  on  rising  from  the 
breakfast  table,  and  start  out  on  these  begging  excursions  (living 
then  with  a  member  of  his  family  in  Brooklyn),  and  his  usual  state- 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   i87i-'72.  163 

merits  were  to  the  effect  that  he  was  starving,  without  a  home,  and 
without  friends,  refusing  to  give  his  address  if  asked,  but  ahvays 
promising  to  return  the  moneys  at  a  specified  time,  and  never  doing 
so  in  an  isolated  instance.  Under  these  circumstances  his  friends 
instituted  his  examination,  and  by  men  familiar  with  his  personal 
history,  by  competent  medical  authority,  he  was  declared  a  lunatic  "so 
disordered  in  his  senses  as  to  endanger  his  owm  person,  and  the  per- 
sons and  property  of  others,  and  that  it  is  dangerous  to  permit  such 
lunatic  to  go  at  large." 

With  this  history,  and  this  decision  as  to  his  mental  unsoundness, 
he  was  received  into  the  Asylum  on  the  22d  of  June,  1868,  from 
Brooklyn,  N.  Y.,  but  was  removed  by  his  son  on  the  4th  of  July  fol- 
lowing. Eight  months  after  he  was  recommitted,  this  time  by  the 
authorities  of  his  native  town  of  Barnet,  Vt. 

In  the  history  of  these  two  men  some  points  of  resemblance  may 
be  noted.  It  will  be  observed  that  both  broke  down  mentally  soon 
after  middle  life,  though  from  the  operation  of  different  causes. 
The  moral  sense  in  each  suffered  more  than  the  intellect,  and  in  fact 
became  in  both  quite  lost.  Both  were  possessed  of  excessive  self 
esteem,  which  not  only  survived  the  moral  faculties  but  seemed 
to  flourish  over  their  decay  until  its  overgrowth  amounted  to  a 
species  of  monomania,  both  entertaining  the  most  overweening  con- 
sciousness of  their  superiority  over  their  fellow  men. 

It  is  curious  to  trace  the  phenomena  of  the  fraternization  of  these 
two  inmates,  in  which,  however,  the  controlling  influence  of  the 
younger  is  apparent.  By  artfully  affecting  a  pious  turn  of  mind,  he 
succeeded  in  completely  duping  the  man  of  God  into  the  belief 
of  his  sincerity,  as  the  following  testimonial  in  the  hand-writing 
of  the  latter  indicates;  though  whether  a  solicited  or  voluntary 
tribute  does  not  appear  : 

"It  has  been  my  privilege  to  form  an  acquaintance  with  Col. 
J.  Addison  Stockton  of  Pittsburgh,  Penn  Have  had  more  or  less 
of  intercourse  with  him  daily  for  some  weeks.  Am  happy  to  say 
I  find  him  a  Christian  gentleman  of  much  more  than  ordinary  liter- 
ary acquirement.  This  has  been  shown  by  prose  and  poetical  com- 
positions, submitted  to  my  inspection.  His  religious  poetical  talent 
is  quite  above  what  is  common. 

"  Col.  Stockton  is  desirous  of  being  useful  in  a  Christian  sphere. 
My  own  opinion  is  that  with  some  preparation  he  might  be  quite 
useful  in  the  Christian  ministry.  His  Biblical  acquirement  is  already 
considerable.  P.  H.  Shaw. 

"Member  of  the  Presbytery  of  New  York,  September  6th,  1869." 


i64  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

This  early  sympathy  established  between  the  two,  and  continuing 
for  some  three  years,  predisposed  them  to  act  together  when  the 
hour  struck  their  time ;  and  as  might  be  expected  the  leader  lost 
little  time  in  bringing  to  his  aid  his  devoted  dupe,  relying  not  a  little 
upon  his  clerical  standing  and  affiliation  for  countenance  and  pre- 
sumed veracity. 

The  ball  was  set  in  motion  by  the  elopement  of  Stockton,  May 
30th,  1872.  He  soon  after  appeared  in  Burlington  in  this  State,  and 
the  authorities  of  the  Asylum  being  notified  that  he  was  there  held, 
sent  for  him,  but  before  he  could  be  returned  from  there,  he  was 
brought  before  Judge  Pierpoint  of  the  Supreme  court  of  Vermont 
upon  a  writ  of  habeas  corpus.  At  the  hearing  in  the  case,  July  loth, 
Judge  Pierpoint,  learning  the  fact  that  he  was  under  guardianship  by 
reason  of  insanity,  and  was  therefore  legally  held  at  the  Asylum, 
recommitted  him  thereto.  Before,  however,  he  could  be  returned  to 
the  Asylum,  another  writ  was  issued  bringing  him  before  Judge 
Smalley  of  the  United  States  court,  upon  the  ground  that  Judge 
Pierpoint  had  no  jurisdiction  in  the  case,  as  Stockton  was  a  resident 
of  another  State,  the  hearing  being  set  for  the  following  day.  At 
this,  Judge  Smalley  decided  the  case  to  come  within  his  jurisdiction, 
and  fixed  upon  the  2d  of  August  for  a  full  investigation  into  its 
merits,  and  meanwhile  remanded  Stockton  to  the  charge  of  the 
proper  officer,  with  directions  "to  restrain  him  no  more  than  might 
be  necessary  to  have  him  present  at  such  hearing."  From  this  time 
forth  therefore,  he  had  the  liberty  of  the  city,  and  with  the  aid  of 
lawyers  and  sympathizers  inaugurated  a  line  of  inquiry  having  for 
its  object  the  investigation  of  the  Asylum  by  the  Legislature,  which 
was  to  convene  in  October  following. 

It  is  interesting  to  note  the  intense  enjoyment  of  the  situation  by 
the  patient,  at  this  turn  in  his  affairs,  by  which  his  mania  for  notori- 
ety gained  free  scope.  In  a  letter  dated  at  the  "Jail,"  July  2d,  to 
an  attendant  at  the  Asylum,  he  writes,  "My  friends  are  going  to 
make  it  a  very  interesting  trial.  I  secured  three  good  attorneys  here, 
two  more  have  volunteered^  and  there  will  in-  others.  Gov.  Stewart 
will  be  invited  to  be  present,  so  he  can  understand  the  uwrkings  of 
and  at  the  Asylum.  Of  course  Lovejoy  [Dr.]  will  be  here,  so  Dr. 
Tenney  and  I  will  have  a  good  week's  work.  1  have  to  thank  him 
for  being  madci  a  lion  of.       I  have  quite  disti/iguished  visitors  hourly, 

but,  think  of  it,  Iwuquets  of  flowers^  almost  equal  to  those  on  J 

F 's  grave!" 

At  the  hearing  before  Judge  Smalley  on  the  2n(l  of  August,  at 
which  testimony  was  presented  upon  both  sides,  Stockton  was 
adjudged  sane  and  unconditionally  discharged. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   i87i-'72.  165 

The  next  step  in  the  progress  of  the  scheme  was,  as  may  be 
anticipated,  the  institution  of  legal  proceedings  in  the  case  of  Shaw. 
He  too  was  brought  before  Judge  Smalley  on  a  writ  of  habeas  corpus 
and  discharged  as  sane  on  the  5th  of  the  following  month. 

In  the  foregoing  sketch  of  these  two  cases  the  writer,  having  no 
personal  acquaintance  with  either,  has  drawn  entirely  upon  docu- 
ments in  the  possession  of  the  Asylum,  and  as  may  be  inferred  by 
preceding  quotations,  principally  in  the  handwriting  of  the  parties, 
and  covering  the  whole  period  of  their  stay  in  the  Institution.  The 
animus  pervading  them  all  is  such  as  would  hardly  fail  to  convince 
any  expert  of  the  mental  unsoundness  of  the  writers,  which  is  most 
manifest  in  two  directions,  to  wit:  in  a  demoralization,  and  a  certain 
puerility  and  garrulousness  belonging  only  to  a  state  of  mental 
degeneracy,  consequent  upon  cerebral  disease  or  senility,  or  both 
combined. 

The  subsequent  history  of  these  men  throws  no  new  light  upon 
their  cases.  Inquiry  of  the  relatives  of  both  concerning  after  facts, 
shows  that  both  died  within  a  couple  of  years  after  their  release  from 
this  Institution.  Col.  Stockton  after  his  return  to  Pennsylvania, 
"  was  carefully  examined  "  writes  one  of  his  family,  "by  two  of  our 
best  physicians,  and  pronounced  unmistakably  insane.  As  a  result 
he  was  placed  in  a  private  institution  near  Philadelphia,  where 
he  died  about  two  years  after." 

Information  concerning  the  subsequent  history  of  Mr.  Shaw,  de- 
rived from  similar  inquiry,  elicits  the  following  facts: 

After  Mr.  Shaw  was  taken  from  the  care  of  the  Asylum  in  1872, 
he  was  for  several  months  at  Northfield,  Mass.,  then  went  to  Brook- 
lyn, N.  Y.,  where  he  remained  through  the  following  winter  with  his 
daughter.  In  the  spring  of  1873,  ^t  the  instance  of  his  son,  he  went 
to  New  York  to  board  at  a  hotel,  where  he  died  in  September  of 
that  year. 

A  friend  of  his  and  of  his  family  thus  writes,  "  I  had  known 
Mr.  Shaw  since  the  year  1845,  ^'^d  more  intimately  from  the  year 
1857,  continuously  until  he  was  taken  to  your  Institution.  I  consid- 
ered his  mind  as  gradually  failing  from  the  year  1850  until  then; 
and  from  my  subsequent  knowledge  of  his  case  up  to  the  time  of  his 
death  am  satisfied  that  he  was  hopelessly  insane.  I  had  every 
opportunity  of  knowing  the  above  to  be  true." 

After  the  judicial  decisions  in  these  cases,  active  work  was  entered 
upon  under  the  guidance  of  these  two  discharged  inmates,  and  in 
the  month  intervening  before  the  General  Assembly  convened,  other 
disaffected  and  unrecovered  ex-patients  were  sought  out,  and  made 
ready  for  a  sensational  deiiouetnent  at  the  proper  time. 


i66  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

The  Legislature  convened  on  the  2nd  of  October.  On  the  4th  a 
Joint  Resolution  was  passed,  "That  a  committee  of  two  senators  and 
three  members  of  the  house  of  representatives  be  appointed  to  visit, 
investigate,  and  make  report  upon  the  condition  of  the  persons  con- 
fined in  the  Vermont  Insane  Asylum  as  insane  persons,  and  whether 
any  persons  are  now  or  have  been  confined  there  during  the  last  two 
years  as  insane  persons  who  are  not  or  were  not  insane,  with  full 
power  to  send  for  persons  and  papers." 

On  the  I  St  day  of  November  following  a  second  Joint  Resolution 
was  also  passed  in  concurrence,  "  That  the  special  committee  already 
appointed  to  visit  and  inspect  the  Insane  Asylum  at  Brattleboro, 
Vermont,  be  authorized  and  instructed  to  visit  the  Insane  Asylum  at 
Concord,  New  Hampshire,  for  the  purpose  of  comparing  the  condi- 
tion and  treatment  of  the  patients  in  the  two  asylums,  and  the  State 
Lunatic  Hospital  at  Northampton,  Massachusetts,"  and  they  were 
further  authorized,  if  necessary,  "  to  pursue  their  investigations  after 
adjournment  of  the  Legislature,  and  make  report  to  the  Governor  on 
or  before  July  ist,  the  following  year." 

The  minutes  in  full  of  this  investigation  were  not  printed,  but 
the  conclusions  of  the  committee  were  embodied  in  a  report  to  the 
Governor,  under  the  instructions  noted,  and  will  be  given  in  due 
chronological  sequence.  It  may  here  be  remarked,  however,  that  in 
this  inquiry,  as  well  as  in  that  of  1852,  the  committee  found  it  neces- 
sary to  exclude  the  testimony  of  former  inmates,  principally,  for  the 
same  reason  as  then,  that  their  statements  were  so  colored  by  their 
morbid  feelings  and  disordered  impressions,  that  they  could  only  be 
taken  at  great  discount  and  with  many  allowances. 

The  election  of  Dr.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  to  the  superintendency,  at  the 
annual  meeting  of  this  year,  was  accepted  by  him  reluctantly  and 
with  the  understanding  that  he  should  be  early  relieved,  as  it  was 
not  his  desire  to  continue  in  the  specialty ;  although  in  view  of  the 
critical  condition  of  health  of  Dr.  Rockwell,  Sr.,  he  recognized  it  as 
an  expedient  duty  for  him  to  perform  for  the  time. 

At  the  December  meeting  of  the  Trustees  (on  the  nth  of  the 
month),  he  tendered  to  the  Board  his  resignation  of  the  office. 
"  After  due  consideration  it  was  Voted,  To  offer  the  position  to  Dr. 
Joseph  Draper,  at  present  First  Assistant  Physician  of  the  Asylum 
at  Trenton,  N.  J.,  and  the  secretary  was  instructed  to  write  him 
to  that  effect." 

At  another  meeting  of  the  Board  held  on  the  following  day,  plans 
for  the  future  were  more  fully  discussed,  and  with  a  view  to  ])utting 
in  steam-heating  apparatus  and   increasing  the  facilities  for  ventila- 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   i87r-'72.  167 

tion,  it  was  Voted,  "To  build  two  additional  wings,  as  it  would  be 
necessary  to  use  the  basements  [hitherto  occupied  by  patients]  for 
putting  in  the  fixtures  for  heating  by  steam;  and  F.  Holbrook  and 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  were  appointed  a  committee,  to  make  esti- 
mates and  contracts  for  the  same."  * 

The  superintendent  elect  duly  received  the  official  communica- 
tion of  the  secretary,  and  on  the  14th  of  the  month  signified  to  the 
Trustees  his  acceptance  of  the  charge  and  his  willingness  to  enter 
upon  its  responsibilities  at  the  earliest  practicable  moment. 

It  will  be  noted  that  this  is  the  second  action  of  the  Trustees  looking  toward  the 
introduction  of  steam  heating.  The  first  was  in  1862,  as  already  recorded,  but  the 
great  fire  immediately  following,  prevented  the  immediate  carrying  of  it  out,  and 
the  constant  pressure  of  other  plans  subsequently,  delayed  it  to  the  present  time. 


RECORD  OF  i873-'74. 


DR.  DRAPER  assumed  the  medical  charge  of  the  Asylum  on 
the  1 6th  of  February. 
The  superintendence  of  the  constructive  work,  determined 
upon  at  the  close  of  the  preceding  year,  devolved  upon   Dr.  Rock- 
well,  Jr.,  and   the  general  charge  of  the  finances  remained  in  his 
hands  until  May  of  the  following  year. 

At  the  regular  meeting  of  the  Trustees  in  May,  1873,  it  was  Voted 
''That  Dr.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  be  authorized  to  procure  a  portrait  of  his 
father,  for  the  use  of,  and  at  the  expense  of  the  Asylum,"  which  was 
duly  accomplished  as  desired. 

On  the  30th  of  June  the  joint  committee  of  the  General  Assembly 
of  the  preceding  year  made  report  of  their  findings  to  the  Governor, 
which  was  published  in  the  newspapers  of  the  State. 

At  the  meeting  of  the  Trustees  in  July  following,  this  Report  was 
discussed  by  the  Board,  and  while  in  many  respects  it  seemed  unjust, 
and  upon  many  points  requiring  explanatory  comments,  they  did  not 
deem  it  best  to  respond  to  it  in  any  official  way  in  the  public  prints. 

This  Report. commences  with  the  somewhat  remarkable  confession 
that,  "  It  was  a  matter  of  surprise  to  some  members  of  your  commit- 
tee to  learn  at  the  inception  of  their  investigation  that  the  Asylum 
was  not  the  property  of  the  State."  Then  followed  an  epitome  of 
the  history  of  its  original  endowment  and  subsequent  development, 
including  the  nature  and  amount  of  aid  it  had  received  from  the 
State,  concluding  with  the  perhaps  unintentional  but  somewhat 
unfortunate  statement  that  ''The  property  is  owned  hy  a  private  cor- 
poration, the  Trustees  of  which  are  Asa  Keyes,  N.  B.  Williston, 
Frederick  Holbrook,  and  F)aniel  Kellogg." 

The  objection  to  this  phraseology  is  that  it  tended  to  perpetuate 
a  quite  prevalent  supposition,  that  it  was  a  joint  stock  corporation 
for  money-making  purposes,  instead  of  a  property  in  trust  for  a 
specific  object,  out  of  which,  under  the  provisions  of  its  charter, 
it  would  be  impossible  for  its  managers  to  appropriate  anything 
to  themselves,  personally. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  J^iy'U-  169 

''The  Trustees,"  they  then  proceed  to  say,   "While  refusing  to 
recognize  any  authority  in  your  committee,  yet  afforded  them  free 
access  to  all  parts  of  the  buildings  and  grounds,  and  inspection  of. 
the  records  and  other  papers  of  the  Institution,  and  treated  us  with 
uniform  courtesy." 

The  primary  complaint  entered  against  the  Institution  was  in  ref- 
erence to  the  number  of  its  inmates,  and  against  the  use  of  the  base- 
ment story  for  patients,  as  follows: — 

"At  the  time  of  our  first  visit,  we  found  the  number  of  patients 
at  the  Asylum  to  be  four  hundred  and  eighty-five,  a  number,  as  the 
committee  believe,  and  as  the  officers  of  the  Institution  admit  in 
their  testimony,  far  too  large  for  the  capacity  of  the  buildings  com- 
fortably to  provide;  in  this  view  your  committee  is  sustained  by  the 
testimony  of  Commissioner  Bullard,  who  fixes  three  hundred  patients 
as  the  maximum  number  which  the  i\sylum  could  accommodate. 

"About  seventy-five  of  the  patients  were  at  the  time  of  our  visit 
confined  in  underground  apartments,  which  are  damp,  unwholesome, 
and  entirely  unfit  for  occupation  by  human  beings.  The  sleeping 
apartments  in  this  underground  portion  were  small,  illy  ventilated, 
warmed  and  lighted.  The  sleeping  apartments  of  the  males  being 
altogether  too  small,  while  some  in  the  female  ward  were  only  nine 
feet  in  depth  by  four  feet  in  width  and  eight  in  height,  opening  into 
a  narrow  hall,  and  ventilated  only  by  eight  two  inch  auger  holes 
through  the  door.  About  midway  of  the  length  of  one  of  these 
lower  wards,  and  at  the  end  of  another  ward,  and  at  the  side,  are 
sinks  which  receive  the  urine  and  slops  from  the  wards  above,  and  at 
all  seasons  of  the  year  must  impart  unwholesome  odors.  On  the 
occasion  of  our  first  visit,  although  disinfectants  had  been  freely 
used,  your  committee  found  the  odors  extremely  unpleasant.  The 
officers  of  the  Institution  offer  as  an  excuse  for  confining  patients  in 
this  unwholesome  manner,  that  at  the  time  the  Asylum  was  built  it 
was  common  to  use  underground  apartments  for  confinement  of 
patients;  and  Dr.  Bancroft  of  the  New  Hampshire  asylum  informed 
us  that  a  portion  of  that  asylum  was  so  built,  but  had  not  been  used 
for  any  such  purpose  for  many  years  past.  We  believe  the  confine- 
ment of  any  person,  sane  or  insane,  in  these  underground  apart- 
ments to  be  cruel,  and  that  the  officers  and  employes  of  the  Institu- 
tion should  be  prohibited  under  heavy  penalties  from  hereafter  plac- 
ing any  insane  person  in  these  apartments." 

That  the  number  of  inmates  was,  and  had  been  for  several  years 
much  beyond  the  actual  capacity  of  the  Institution,  could  not  be  dis- 
puted;   and  to  this  cause,  more  than  to  all  others  cornbined,   the 


lyo  ANNALS    OF  THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

writer  is  disposed  to  charge  all  the  complications  at  this  time  involved. 
The  average  number  in  the  seven  years  immediately  preceding 
this  year,  had  been  in  excess  of  five  hundred.  Just  in  proportion  as 
an  institution  becomes  crowded,  are  discomforts  increased,  frictions 
engendered  and  classifications  subverted,  while  individuality  is  over- 
looked if  not  lost.  Then  it  is  that  restless  spirits  riot  in  their  oppor- 
tunity, and  chaos  rather  than  order  prevails.  Universal  experience 
would  doubtless  show  that  harmony  and  effective  work  go  hand 
m  hand  with  comfort  and  judicious  association,  and  that  perplexi- 
ties and  results  short  of  satisfactory  follow  in  proportion  as  depar- 
tures from  these  conditions  are  forced  upon  such  a  household.  Even 
if  the  number  of  attendants  is  proportionately  increased,  the  evil 
is  largely  irremediable.  Collisions  are  necessarily  more  frequent,  and 
coercive  measures  become  more  frequently  unavoidable.  That  such 
at  least  had  been  the  experience  realized  at  this  Institution,  seems 
evident. 

Again  the  constantly  crowded  state  of  the  Asylum  had  rendered 
almost  impracticable  many  changes  in  the  accommodations  of 
the  Institution  that  were  desirable,  and  deferred  the  introduction  of 
increased  facilities  for  care  and  treatment  of  the  inmates,  which 
were  recognized  by  the  management  as  needed.  The  committee 
especially  dwell  upon  the  evil's  connected  with  the  basement  story  of 
the  building,  and  from  their  description  of  the  same,  quite  a  false 
impression  of  these  accommodations  went  abroad.  They  were 
spoken  of  as  "underground  apartments,"  while  full  half  this  story 
was  above  the  ground  level.  In  fact  the  arrangement  of  this  floor 
exactly  coincided  in  its  construction  with  those  above.  There  was 
the  same  long  central  corridor  with  rooms  on  either  hand,  and  the 
brick  partition  walls  dividing  the  apartments  above  rested  upon 
foundations  upon  the  basement  level,  and  enclosed  here  the  same 
spaces.  In  the  matter  of  light,  too,  each  room  had  its  window  three 
feet  in  height  and  of  the  same  width  as  those  above,  in  the  upper 
half  of  the  room  and  resting  upon  the  foundation  belt  of  stone  above 
which  the  brick  walls  were  superimposed,  and  entirely  above  the 
ground  level.  'i'he  only  exception  to  this  arrangement  was  one 
which  was  adopted  from  the  pressure  of  circumstances  which  neces- 
sitated more  rooms  for  the  separate  isolation  of  violent  cases,  and 
which  consisted  in  dividing  upon  the  rear  side  of  the  building  some 
rooms  into  two,  giving  the  dimensions  quoted  in  the  foregoing 
extract  from  the  Committee's  Report,  and  the  doors  to  these  apart- 
ments being  made  of  a  double  thickness  of  boards,  had  circular 
openings  in  their   upper  portion   for  the  purpose  of  observing  the 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  t873-'74.  171 

occupant  without  always  opening  the  door.  These  narrow  apart- 
ments had  each  a  window  of  half  the  width  and  equal  height  with 
those  given  as  the  the  general  size;  yet  the  impression  given  in  this 
Report  was  that  of  unlighted  and  unventilated  cells,  save  by  these 
apertures  in  their  doors.  In  fact  the  idea  conveyed  of  this  whole 
story  was  that  of  a  cellar,  instead  of  a  basement  floor.  Again,  the 
sanitarv  arrangements  for  these  basement  wards  were  specially  com- 
plained of,  but  differed  in  no  respect  from  the  arrangements  in  the 
upper  wards.  Faulty,  it  may  be  conceded;  but  essentially  unsani- 
tary they  were  not,  else  epidemics  of  disease  would  surely  have  co- 
existed. In  thus  critically  reviewing  these  comments  upon  con- 
structive faults,  we  do  not  attempt  to  extenuate  them;  but  we 
submit  that  such  wholesale  condemnation  of  an  institution  by  a 
Legislative  committee,  seems  to  some  extent  unwarranted,  when  it  is 
remembered  how  little  this  State  had  done  toward  making  provision 
for  its  wards,  in  comparison  with  those  of  the  neighboring  States, 
whose  asylums  this  committee  were  instructed  to  visit  and  compare 
with  this,  unless  some  conclusions  were  likewise  to  be  drawn,  based 
upon  the  relative  expenditures  of  the  several  States  in  creating 
asylum  accommodations. 

In  the  second  place  we  read,  "  Your  committee  find  the  fact  that 
the  whole  of  said  Asylum  was  at  the  time  of  their  first  visit,  inade- 
quately warmed  and  ventilated;  we  also  noticed  at  this  and  subse- 
quent visits,  the  almost  entire  absence  of  anything  to  relieve  the 
harshness  of  restraint;  very  few  pictures  broke  the  hard  outlines 
of  the  hall  walls;  while  at  Northampton  and  Concord,  we  found  the 
walls  embellished  with  pictures,  not  costly,  but  pleasant  to  the  eye 
and  sense,  and  which  we  believe  must  tend  to  draw  these  unfortu- 
nates from  contemplation  of  themselves,  and  form  a  means  toward 
their  cure.  At  Northampton  we  found  a  large  yard  decorated  with 
shrubs  and  yet  securely  enclosed,  where  the  more  dangerous  class  of 
patients  might  exercise;  and  in  the  center  of  this  yard  an  artificial 
mound  had  been  made  enabling  these  unfortunates  to  enjoy  the 
beautiful  landscape.  At  Brattleboro  we  found  nothing  of  this  kind 
except  some  small  yards  enclosed  with  high  and  close  board  fences, 
without  tree,  shrub  or  even  grass  to  relieve  their  untidiness.  We 
were  told,  it  is  true,  that  other  classes  of  patients  had  exercise  in 
labor  upon  the  farm,  or  in  walks  taken  under  the  direction  of  their 
keepers,  but  for  this  class  no  effort  looking  toward  opportunity  for 
out  door  exercise  or  amusement  seems  to  have  been  made.  The 
cost  of  such  yards  as  the  one  at  Northampton  can  be  but  trifling, 
and  we  recommend  that  suitable  yards  be  built.     We  also  find  that 


172  ANNALS   OF    THE   VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

at  Northampton  nearly  every  evening  the  patients,  or  at  least  as 
many  of  them  as  are  able,  are  collected  together  in  the  chapel  of  the 
asylum  and  some  of  the  officers  of  the  institution  read,  or  cause  to 
be  read  to  them  poetry  or  prose,  and  entertain  them  with  music  or  a 
lecture;  and  that  patients'  minds  are  thus  for  the  time  turned  from 
themselves  or  the  particular  subject  of  their  mania  into  other  chan- 
nels, and  in  the  language  of  Dr.  Earle,  the  superintendent,  '  are 
relieved  much  more  rapidly,  and  their  minds  regulated  and  much 
sooner  restored  than  they  would  be  without  this  diversion.'  No 
such  exercises  are  practised  at  the  Vermont  Asylum,  though  we  learn 
incidentally  that  Dr.  Draper,  the  new  superintendent,  has  introduced 
them  to  some  extent." 

In  respect  to  the  inadequacy  of  warming  and  ventilation,  it  may 
be  said  that  under  the  old  method  of  heating  by  furnaces,  the 
x\sylum  was  unequally  warmed  as  compared  with  the  subsequent 
method  by  steam,  but  that  this  was  inadequate  in  amount  could 
hardly  be  affirmed  with  truth.  As  to  ventilation  it  was  doubtless 
open  to  criticism,  by  reason  chiefly,  as  already  affirmed,  of  the  number 
of  inmates  in  excess  of  its  proper  capacity. 

Portions  of  the  building  were  also,  as  stated,  devoid  of  ornamental 
furnishings,  but  not  the  wards  devoted  to  the  better  grade  of  patients. 
Particular  and  undue  stress,  as  it  seems  to  us,  was  also  laid  upon  the 
small  court  yards  devoted  to  the  limited  number  of  the  most  excited 
and  most  demented  classes,  while  the  full  and  free  use  by  the  female 
patients  generally,  of  the  front  grounds  and  garden  walks,  which  had 
always  been  the  rule,  escaped  the  notice  or  recollection  of  the  com- 
mittee entirely.  Religious  and  other  exercises  commented  upon 
favorably  in  the  other  institutions  visited,  suggest  some  additional 
facts  in  this  connection.  The  careful  reader  of  these  annals  will 
have  observed  the  inauguration  of  family  worship  in  the  early  years, 
and  subsequently  the  institution  of  a  Sunday  service,  in  which  a 
sermon  was  read  by  the  superintendent,  with  the  usual  devotional 
program,  singing,  etc.  This  was  continued  through  the  whole  term 
of  service  of  the  elder  Rockwell.  But  in  addition  to  this,  provision 
was  early  secured  for  the  attendance  in  the  churches  of  the  village 
of  any  and  all  of  the  inmates  of  the  Asylum  whose  condition  would 
allow  of  this  privilege.  Pews  in  the  several  churches  in  the  village 
were  early  purchased  for  this  purpose,  and  deeds  of  twelve  slips 
in  five  of  these  churches  are  now  held  as  vouchers  for  this  fact  in  the 
archives  of  the  Asylum;  and  these  were  used  by  virtue  of  these 
deeds  of  ownership,  or  by  the  payment  of  rentals,  during  the  whole 
period  of  the  charge  of  Dr.  Rockwell,  Sr. 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEARS    i873-'74.  173 

When  the  superintendency  devolved  upon  Dr.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  the 
practice  of  procuring  the  services  of  the  clerg3aiien  in  town  to  offic- 
iate on  Sundays  at  the  Asylum  was  instituted,  and  has  since  then 
been  continued.  It  may  also  be  added  that  when  the  present  Super- 
intendent entered  upon  service,  a  series  of  dramatic  exhibitions  had 
been  inaugurated,  preceded  by  a  dance  on  Christmas  evening,  1872. 

The  committee  further  say,  "We  find  punishments  are  sometimes 
inflicted  at  the  Vermont  Asylum."  Upon  exactly  what  testimony 
this  conclusion  was  reached,  the  present  writer  has  no  data;  but  cer- 
tainly every  rule  and  regulation  governing  officers  and  employes  in 
the  care  of  the  insane,  was  directly  opposed  to  any  such  principle  of 
management,  and  it  is  totally  at  variance  with  every  sentiment  drawn 
from  the  published  utterances  of  the  veteran  superintendent,  as 
quoted  in  these  annals  for  the  period  of  an  entire  generation.  More- 
over the  authorization  of  any  such  practice  was  distinctly  denied  by 
the  resident  officers  at  the  time.  Such  facts,  therefore,  if  proven  to 
the  committee,  must  be  relegated  along  with  other  departures 
already  deprecated,  from  the  domain  of  responsible  control  to  the 
realm  of  incidental  irregularities,  prmcipally  resulting,  as  before 
stated,  in  the  opinion  of  the  writer,  from  the  overcrowded  state 
of  the  Asylum,  in  which  year  by  year  individuality  in  the  matter 
of  treatment  became  more  and  more  overlooked  or  lost. 

Again  the  commrttee  say,  "We  are  satisfied  persons  have  been 
admitted  to  sad  Asylum  who  were  not  insane,"  but  as  this  statement 
was  deduced,  as  expressly  stated,  from  the  cases  already  fully  dwelt 
upon,  comment  upon  this  point  further  is  uncalled  for.  Some 
redeeming  features  were  conceded  in  concluding,  as  follows:^ — 

"Your  committee  find  that  the  supplies  of  food  at  the  Institution 
are  sufficient  in  quantity  and  quality,  and  we  are  unanimous  in 
the  opinion  that  the  food  is  well  cooked  and  properly  served." 

Again,  "  Your  committee  find  that,  notwithstanding  the  draw^- 
backs  surrounding  the  Institution,  the  death  rate  among  its  patients 
has  been  for  ten  years  past  less  than  at  any  other  institution  of 
the  kind  in  New  England,  except  the  New  Hampshire  at  Concord, 
and  but  a  small  per  cent  above  that." 

The  following  article  by  an  anonymous  writer  in  defense  of 
the  management,  appeared  in  the  Boston  Daily  Advertiser  in  the 
issue  of  July  29th,  1S73,  and  is  here  introduced  as  the  candid 
and  just  expression  of  the  views  of  the  citizens  of  Bratttleboro 
who  had  best  opportunity  to  judge  of  the  life-long  character  and 
work  of  Dr.  Rockwell  and  his  son,  in  the  charge  and  development 
of  the  Institution,  now  subjected  to  critical  investigation. 


174  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

"We  have  read  with  astonishment  and  indignation  the  Report 
of  the  investigating  committee  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane. 
Dr.  Rockwell  has  long  been  known  among  us  as  an  upright  and 
honorable  man,  who  has  given  his  best  endeavors  'for  many  years  to 
benefit  the  Asylum  committed  to  his  charge.  He  took  the  Institu- 
tion in  its  infanc}^,.  and  with  a  meagre  endowment  of  $10,000  and 
$23,000  given  by  the  State,  has  raised  its  pecuniary  value  to  $500,- 
000  through  his  able  management  and  great  financial  ability.  At 
present  confined  to  a  bed  of  lingering  sickness,  disabled  from 
answering  the  charges  brought  against  him,  it  is  but  right  that  his 
friends  should  defend  his  character  when  it  is  so  bitterly  attacked. 
In  many  instances  the  Report  is  so  worded  as  to  entirely  mislead  the 
mind  of  the  reader.  When  in  the  account  of  some  of  the  so  called 
'dungeons,'  rooms  that  in  reality  are  not  sunk  nearly  so  low  beneath 
the  level  of  the  ground  as  the  basement  kitchens  common  in  cities, 
it  is  said  'these  are  only  ventilated  by  eight  two  inch  augur  holes 
bored  through  the  door,'  omitting  all  mention  of  the  windows  with 
which  all  the  rooms  are  provided,  and  which  certainly  contribute  to 
the  ventilation. 

"Again  the  Report,  after  speaking  with  commendation  of  the 
enclosed  yards  at  Northampton,  adds,  'At  Brattleboro  we  found 
nothing  of  the  kind  except  some  small  yards  enclosed  with  high 
board  fences,  without  trees,  shrubs,  or  even  ^rass  to  relieve  their 
untidiness.'  No  mention  is  made  of  the  large  and  beautiful  grounds 
belonging  to  the  Asylum  to  which  all  patients,  with  the  exception  of 
a  few  of  the  very  worst  and  most  dangerous,  have  access,  and  while 
an  impression  is  given  that  no  amusements  of  any  kind  are  afforded, 
to  our  knowledge  theatricals  and  dances  have  often  been  got  up 
for  the  entertainment  of  the  patients,  and  the  female  patients  are 
frequently  taken  to  drive.  Every  Sunday  afternoon  regular  service 
is  held  in  the  chapel,  conducted  by  one  or  other  of  the  different 
clergymen  of  the  village,  or  by  strangers  who  may  happen  to  be  vis- 
iting the  town. 

"When  the  committee  were  so  careful  to  mention  all  the  faults, 
real  and  imaginary,  that  they  could  find  in  the  Institution,  it  is  a 
matter  of  regret  that  they  did  not  enlarge  a  little  on  some  of  its 
merits,  as  they  briefly  mention  that  tnere  is  very  much  in  the  conduct 
of  the  A.sylum  that  they  can  commend. 

"  Dr.  Rockwell  is  not  responsible  for  the  laws  of  the  State  of  Ver- 
mont touchmg  the  insane.  He  has  neither  made,  nor  has  he  broken 
them.  Doubtless  they  could  be  much  improved,  and  none  would 
hail  the  improvement  more  gladly  than  himself.     The  most  serious 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEARS    i^iyiA-  i75 

,  charge  made  by  the  committee  is  that  '  they  are  satisfied  that  per- 
sons have  been  admitted  to  said  Asylum  who  are  not  insane.'  Why 
are  they  so  satisfied?  The  only  case  mentioned  is  that  of  Joseph  A. 
Stockton,  who  was  discharged  as  'sane'  in  the  face  of  testimony 
proving  that  he  had  already  been  confined  in  three  asylums  in 
Pennsylvania,  had  made  frequent  attempts  on  hia  own  life,  and  that 
while  in  the  army,  when  sentenced  to  the  penitentiary  for  a  year, 
and  to  pay  a  heavy  fine  on  account  of  misdemeanors  committed,  his 
friends,  and  among  them  the  late  Secretary  Stanton,  procured  his 
release  on  the  ground  of  his  insanity.  The  decision  under  these 
circumstances  that  he  was  to  be  considered  a  sane  man,  is  certainly 
a  strange  one.  Stronger  proof  than  this  should  be  given  before  such 
heavy  charges  are  made. 

''  The  case  of  the  Rev.  Peter  Shaw,  frequently  commented  on  in 
the  newspapers,  is  a  somewhat  analogous  one.  This  poor  old  man 
was  the  victim  of  monomania,  and  on  the  Superintendent's  testifying 
that  he  was  harmless,  was  discharged  by  the  judge,  who  advanced 
the  doctrine  that  none  but  dangerous  lunatics  should  be  considered 
insane  enough  to  be  confined  in  asylums. 

"At  the  investigation  this  old  gentleman  testified  that  two  patients 
from  Canada,  were,  upon  their  arrival  at  the  Asylum  set  upon  by  the 
attendants,  stamped  to  pieces,  killed,  and  the  remains  boxed  up 
and  sent  to  their  friends.  He  could  not  give  the  names  of  these 
victims,  nor  did  he  assign  any  motive  for  the  useless  murder. 
He  also  testified  that  he  saw  another  patient  cruelly  beaten  by 
an  attendant  whose  name  he  gave.  When  minute  distinct  charges 
are  made  they  are  easily  refuted.  It  was  at  once  proved  that  the 
attendant  in  questioa  had  left  the  Asylum  a  year  before  the  time 
stated  in  the  accusation,  and  that  Mr.  Shaw,  being  in  another  hall 
from  the  much  abused  patient,  could  not  have  witnessed  the  beating 
even  if  it  had  been  inflicted.  The  officers  of  the  Institution  dis- 
tinctly deny  the  charge  that  punishments,  as  suck,  are  ever  used 
by  them,  and  it  is  from  testimony  like  the  above,  the  creation  of  dis- 
ordered minds,  that  sensational  stories,  which  have  been  going 
the  rounds  of  the  papers,  of  a  system  of  torture  worthy  of  the  dark 
ages,  have  sprung. 

"  The  committee  admit  that  the  quantity  and  quality  of  the  food 
are  all  that  could  be  desired,  and  the  significant  statement  made  by 
them  that  the  death  rate  at  the  Vermont  Asylum  is  less  than  at  any 
other  asylum  in  New  England,  with  the  exception  of  that  at  Concord, 
N.  H.,  coupled  with  the  kindred  fact  that  the  number  of  those 
discharged  as  cured  is  larger  than  at  most  of  the  similar  asylumsi 


176  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

would  of.  themselves  prove  the  absurdity  of  the  stories  of  neglect, 
insufficient  care,  inadequate  warmth  and  ventilation,  ill  treatment, 
etc.;  such  results  do  not  follow  such  causes. 

^'  The  final  representation  made  in  the  report  is  that  the  present 
changes  and  improvements  have  been  in  progress  since  the  appoint- 
ment of  Dr.  Draper,  the  present  Superintendent  of  the  Asylum. 
This  is  true,  but  it  is  also  true  that  these  improvements  were  planned 
and  commenced  by  the  former  Superintendent,  and  are  now  going 
on  under  the  charge  of  Dr.  Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  in  whom  the 
Trustees  have  high  and  deserved  confidence.  This  young  man  was 
for  a  few  months,  in  consequence  of  his  father's  illness,  placed  by 
the  Trustees  at  the  head  of  the  establishment,  but  with  the  express 
stipulation,  made  by  himself,  that  he  should  resign  as  soon  as  a  suc- 
cessor could  be  found.  He  was  neither  turned  out  for  extravagance, 
— as  the  Springfield  Republican  asserts — nor  did  he  resign  on  account 
of  intended  investigation,  as  the  Rutland  Herald  states.  He  left  of 
his  own  free  will,  and  in  opposition  to  the  urgent  request  of  the 
Trustees,  that  he  would  still  continue  at  his  post. 

''We  ask  you,  in  the  name  of  justice,  to  publish  these  few  and 
simple  statements  of  facts.  What  seems  to  us  a  cruelly  unjust  story 
is  being  spread  far  and  wide  through  the  land.  We  claim  at  least 
the  privilege,  given  us  by  long  acquaintance  and  high  esteem,  of 
speaking  in  defense  of  the  accused." 

At  the  annual  meeting  the  following  officers  were  chosen: — ■ 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Asa  Keyes,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

Joseph   ])raj)er.  Superintendent  and   Physician. 

Ira  X.  Haywood,  Farmer. 

Frances  M.  Palmer,  Matron. 

C.  H.  Tennev,  )         . 

T    M   ("]'   k        r  Assist^^^t  Physicians. 

At  the  October  meeting  a  Code  of  Rules  for  the  government  of 
the  attendants  and  employes  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  insane, 
prepared  by  the  Superintendent,  was  approved  by  the  Trustees  and 
ordered  to  be  printed. 

On  the  30th  of  November  of  this  year  Dr.  Rockwell,  Sr.,  died  at 
the  Asylum.     More  than  thirty-seven  years  before  he  had  entered 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  i873-'74.  177 

upon  the  work  of  building  up  the  establishment,  with  what  result  the 
preceding  annals  show.  Save  by  reason  of  sickness  he  had  never 
ceased  to  labor,  and  virtually  he  died,  as  it  had  been  his  oft 
expressed  wish  that  he  might,  in  harness. 

For  the  year  and  a  half  preceding  his  death  he  was  confined 
to  his  bed,  suffering  much  from  his  fractured  limb,  gradually  wearing 
•away  and  sinking  to  his  final  rest;  and  then  it  was  that  the  strong 
points  of  his  character  shone  out  with  the  most  striking  brilliancy. 
Realizing  that  his  work  was  done,  and  that  he  had  done  it  faithfully, 
he  expressed  his  willingness  to  be  judged  by  it.  Undisturbed  by 
the  shafts  of  malice  and  indiscriminate  censure,  he  calmly  observed, 
"that  his  work  would  be  better  appreciated  and  his  motives  be  better 
understood  after  he  had  gone."  And  so  he  passed  away;  dying  as 
he  had  lived,  strong  in  the  faith  of  his  life-long  convictions,  and 
relying  with  unshaken  confidence  upon  the  Divine  justice,  which 
metes  out  to  every  man  the  full  measure  of  his  deserts. 

At  the  May  meeting  of  the  Board,  1874,  Judge  Kellogg  offered 
his  resignation  as  Trustee,  which  was  duly  accepted,  and  the  remain- 
ing members  then  proceeded  to  the  election  of  his  successor. 

Voted,  and  chose  Dr.  Wm.  H.  Rockwell.  Judge  Keyes  then  ten- 
dered the  following  communication,  likewise  resigning  his  office: 

"To  THE  Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane: 

"  Having  served  as  one  of  the  Trustees  for  about  thirty  years, 
and  having  arrived  at  the  age  of  eighty-seven  years  this  month, 
1  deem  it  my  duty  as  well  as  privilege  to  decline  further  continuing 
in  said  trust.     I  do  therefore  resign. 

ASA   KEYES." 

James  M.  Tyler  was  then  nominated  and  elected  to  fill  the 
vacancy. 

At  this  time  also  the  charge  of  the  finances,  which  had  hitherto 
remained  in  the  hands  of  Dr.  Rockwell,  was  placed  in  those  of  the 
Superintendent. 

The  following  oflficers  were  chosen  at  the  annual  meeting: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

F,  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
N.  B.  Williston,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Auditor. 


178  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,  Superintendent  and   Physician. 

•Asa  Gilkey,  Farmer. 

Frances  M.  Palmer,  Matron. 

J.  M.  Clark,        ) 

H.  T.  Whitney,  \  Assistant  Physicians. 

Since  the  last  election  Mr.  Haywood  had  resigned  the  position  of 
farmer,  and  Mr.  Gilkey  had  been  selected  to  fill  his  place. 

Dr.  Clark  had  performed  the  duties  of  first  assistant  since  the 
death  of  Dr.  Tenney,  [April  27th,  '74,]  and  Dr.  Whitney  had  been 
secured  for  the  vacancy  of  second  assistant,  and  entered  upon 
the  work. 

The  Report  of  the  Trustees  to  the  Governor  of  the  State  of  Ver- 
mont is  here  given  in  full: — 

"The  Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane  respect- 
fully present  this,  their  biennial  report  for  the  preceding  two  years, 

"The  Superintendent's  Report  shows  that  699  patients  have  been 
inmates  of  the  Asylum  during  the  past  two  years.  There  were  495 
August  ist,  1872,  since  which  204  have  been  admitted,  228  have 
been  discharged,  and  471  now  remain. 

"  The  past  two  years  have  been  the  most  eventful  of  any  since 
the  Asylum  was  founded;  as  during  this  time  we  have  suffered  the 
irreparable  loss  by  death  of  Dr.  W.  H.  Rockwell,  who  for  so  many 
years  filled  the  responsible  position  of  Superintendent,  and  by  whose 
forethought,  fostering  care,  and  remarkable  executive  ability-,  the 
Institution  has  attained  the  position  it  now  maintains;  also  by 
the  resignation  of  two  of  the  most  honored  and  best  known  mem- 
bers of  the  Board,  Judges  Asa  Keyes  and  Daniel  Kellogg,  who  have 
been  identified  with  the  best  interests  of  the  Asylum  since  its 
infancy,  and  who  by  their  counsel  and  aid  have  done  so  much 
for  its  welfare,  and  for  that  of  the  unfortunate  class  committed  to  its 
care. 

"In  1872  Dr.  W.  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  was  appointed  Superintendent 
and  accepted  the  position  temporarily,  as  he  had  long  expressed 
a  desire  to  retire  from  the  Asylum,  having  then  been  in  active 
service  there  for  more  than  fifteen  years;  and  on  his  resignation 
in  1873,  we  appointed  Dr.  Joseph  Draper,  who  brought  with  him 
a  long  experience  in  the  care  and  treatment  of  the  insane,  to  fill 
the  vacancy. 

"  During  the  past  year  we  have  completed  two  additional  wings 
to  the  Asylum,  and  also  a  boiler  house  for  the  steam  heating  appa- 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  i873-'74.  179 

ratus,  in  which  we  have  placed  four  large  boilers  and  a  steam  engine, 
but  have  been  unable  to  complete  our  plans,  owing  to  lack  of  funds. 
We,  however,  hope  before  another  winter  to  have  them  in  full  work- 
ing order. 

"Owing  to  the  outlay  for  new  buildings,  steam  works  and  other 
improvements,  the  expenses  have  exceeded  the  receipts  by  $45,000, 
which  we  have  had  to  borrow  from  banks  and  individuals;  and  there 
are  still  other  bills  that  have  not  been  settled,  which  will  swell 
the  amount  to  a  larger  sum. 

"We  would  respectfully  request  the  Legislature  for  an  increase 
of  the  rate  we  are  now  allowed  to  charge  for  those  receiving  State 
aid,  as  the  present  amount  is  not  sufficient  for  their  support,  being 
less  than  the  average  cost  of  each  one,  and  less  than  that  allowed  to 
other  institutions  in  this  State,  and  much  less  than  is  paid  to  any 
other  asylum  in  the  New  England  States.  The  number  of  patients 
steadily  increases  each  year,  thereby  debarring  us  from  receiving  as 
many  from  elsewhere — for  we  are  continually  importuned  so  to  do — 
and  consequently  materially  lessening  our  income,  as  they  pay 
a  larger  amount  than  those  from  Vermont. 

"We  have  frequently  visited  the  Asylum  during  the  past  two 
years,  together  and  individually,  and  have  endeavored  to  watch  over 
the  welfare  of  those  under  its  care,  and  from  our  personal  observa- 
tion believe  the  designs  of  the  Institution  are  faithfully  carried  out. 
We  would  cordiall}^  commend  it  to  all,  as  well  worthy  of  the  confi- 
dence and  esteem  it  so  long  has  held." 

The  Superintendent's  Report  elaborates  as  far  as  possible  the 
statistics  of  the  two  hundred  and  four  cases  anmitted,  and  the  two 
hundred  and  twenty-eight  discharged,  and  dwells  largely  upon 
the  general  history,  objects,  and  practical  working  of  the  Institution; 
the  late  Legislative  inquiry  having  shown  that  many  misapprehen- 
sions concerning  it  were  prevalent,  even  among  persons  of  general 
information  and  intelligence. 

In  doing  this.  The  Policy  of  the  Institution  in  Relation  to  Admis- 
sions and  Discharges,  The  Organization  of  the  Institution,  and 
General  Principles  of  Treatment,  The  Ownership  of  the  Asylum, 
Legacies,  Public  Supervision,  Capacity  of  the  Buildings,  Heating 
and  Ventilating,  Embellishments,  Religious  Services,  Amusements, 
Policy  of  the  Institution  in  Relation  to  Labor,  Correspondence, 
Medical  Certificates,  Appropription  of  State  Aid,  and  Legislation  of 
the  State  in  Reference  to  the  Insane,  were  separately  discussed 
and  commented  upon. 


i8o  ANNALS    OF    THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

The  following  quotation,  supplementing  the  detailed  statement 
of  the  work  of  the  past  two  years  contained  in  the  Trustees'  Report, 
is  added  to  make  the  record  more  complete. 

"Between  the  24th  of  January  last  and  the  13th  of  April  follow- 
ing, the  new  wings  were  opened,  and  the  entire  basement  story 
vacated  by  patients,  seventy-five  inmates  being  then  transferred 
to  better  constructed  wards.  They  were  for  the  most  part  cases 
of  chronic  dementia,  long  habitues  of  the  place,  who  little  minded 
the  change  apparently,  and  some  even  moved  reluctantly,  and  mani- 
festly failed  to  find  in  their  new  quarters  that  degree  of  contentment 
which  they  had  grown  to  feel  in  their  old  tenements.  Still  we 
rejoice  in  the  change  as  a  step  in  the  advance,  and  in  accordance 
with  the  ideas  of  the  times.  And  the  vacated  story  subserves  an 
equally  necessary  and  important  purpose  in  locating  new  heating 
pipes  and  radiators  for  warming  the  building  by  steam,  and  for 
the  purposes  of  storage. 

"In  addition  to  the  construction  of  the  buildings,  a  good  deal  has 
been  done  in  the  way  of  furnishing;  movable  settees  in  the  halls  have 
been  replaced  by  an  approved  pattern  of  permanent  wall  seat, 
and  one  hundred  iron  bedsteads  have  been  introduced  in  furnishing 
the  new  wings. 

"  The  libraries  [of  which  there  are  three]  have  been  increased,  and 
additional  framed  pictures  have  been  hung  in  the  recesses  of  the 
halls. 

"So  far  as  our  income  has  allowed  we  have  endeavored  constantly 
to  add  to  the  conveniences  and  arrangements  of  the  household,  with- 
out losing  sight  of  means  less  practically  useful,  but  scarcely  less 
essential  in  a  moral  point  of  view  to  the  welfare  of  the  patients;  with 
larger  resources  we  would  gladly  do  more." 

The  Report  closes  with  brief  obituaries  of  Dr.  Rockwell  and 
Dr.  Tenney,  and  acknowledgements  due  for  gifts,  and  individual 
services. 

The  financial  exhibit  for  the  two  years  shows,  $213,810.66 
received  and  $213,929.11  expended,  leaving  a  deficit  of  $118.45, 
August  T,  1874. 

Thedebtof  $45, 000  incurred  in  1873  principally,  seemed  to  forbid 
the  introduction  this  "year  of  the  works  in  detail,  and  hot  air  furnaces 
were  therefore  placed  for  temporary  use  under  the  new  wings. 

The  cost  of  the  east  and  west  extensions  of  the  wings,  (onslnuted 
in  1873-74,  was  $43,214.18,  of  the  boiler  house,  chimney  stack, 
tunnels,  boilers  and  engine,  $13,000.00. 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEARS    i873-'74.  i8i 

The  cultured  taste  shown  in  the  embelHshment  of  the  grounds 
of  the  Asylum,  it  is  proper  to  say  in  this  connection,  was  the  result 
of  the  personal  oversight  and  direction  of  Mrs.  Rockwell,  Sr.,  whose 
interest  in  it  was  unflagging,  and  whose  enjoyment  in  it  was  so  gen- 
uine as  to  make  this  a  pastime  rather  than  a  labor. 

In  the  care  of  the  flower  garden,  shrubbery,  etc.,  she  had  a  use- 
ful assistant  in  one  William  Moss,  an  inmate  of  the  Asylum  some 
seventeen  years,  and  who  deserves  an  honorable  mention  in  this 
connection.  This  patient  was  an  Englishman  by  birth,  and  bred 
a  gardener  in  the  old  country.  His  dominant  delusion  when 
admitted,  and  which  in  fact  continued  up  to  his  removal  a  few 
months  since  by  a  daughter  who  had  married  and  settled  in  the  West, 
was,  "that  he  was  about  to  be  arrested  or  murdered,  or  in  some  way 
injured  or  kidnapped."  At  first  he  was  very  wretched,  afraid  to 
sleep  in  his  bed,  spending  his  nights  in  watching  at  his  door,  and 
holding  conversations  or  remonstrating  with  imaginary  '  persons 
whom  he  believed  he  heard  plotting  against  him.  After  a  few 
weeks  passed  in  this  unhappy  manner,  he  was  induced  to  go  into  the 
garden  to  work.  Here  Mrs.  Rockwell  interested  herself  in  him,  and 
became  his  friend,  and  by  her  he  was  taught  to  read.  Thus  was  the 
intensity  of  his  mental  derangement  relieved  and  his  condition 
improved  by  the  occupation  of  his  hands,  and  the  new  resource 
afforded  by  the  acquirement  of  the  art  of  reading.  Like  Moses, 
whose  case  has  been  before  detailed.  Moss  became  an  individual 
of  consequence  and  note  in  the  Asylum  community.  His  parole 
was  limited  to  the  premises,  but  an  extension  of  it  would  have  been 
useless,  as  he  felt  safe  nowhere  outside,  nor  scarcely  within.  Once 
only  was  he  known  to  leave  the  boundaries  of  the  grounds,  and  this 
was  on  the  occasion  of  the  great  fire  of  '62,  and  then  great  fears 
were  entertained  when  he  was  found  missing,  lest  he  had  perished 
in  the  flames;  and  there  was  great  rejoicing  when  after  twenty-four 
hours  he  was  returned  from  an  adjoining  town  with  only  a  frost- 
bitten toe.  His  tormenting  hallucinations  on  this  occasion  drove 
him  away,  as  he  was  safely  out  of  the  building  and  standing  beside 
the  garden  fence,  when  he  thought  he  heard  some  one  say,  "There 
he  goes,  sieze  him!  sieze  him!"  He  then  fled  from  his  imaginary 
pursuers.  On  a  subsequent  occasion  he  was  missed  and  no  trace  of 
him  could  be  found  for  two  or  three  days,  when  he  reappeared, 
having  taken  refuge  from*  his  haunting  fears  under  the  summer 
house  in  the  grounds,  from  which  retreat  he  had  heard  his  absence 
noted  and  discussed  by  various  members  of  the  household  during 
the  whole  time,  but  made  no  sign. 


i82  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

This  case  illustrates  the  possibility  of  usefulness,  even  without 
lucid  intervals,  and  while  constantly  laboring  under  the  most 
harrassing  suspicions  and  fears.  Had  it  not  been  for  the  continued 
efforts  of  his  special  patroness,  however,  aided  by  the  co  operation 
of  others  generally,  it  is  more  than  probable  that  his  delusions  would 
have  come  to  wholly  possess  his  mind,  possibly  impelling  him  to 
have  terminated  his  wretchedness  by  his  own  hand,  from  very 
intensity  of  apprehension  and  irresistible  fears. 


RECORD  OF   i87f6. 


AT  a  meeting-  on  the   nth  of  May,   1875,  the  Trustees    Voted, 
"  To  complete  the  introduction  of  the  steam  heating  appara- 
tus the  present  year,  and  that  Dr.  W.  H.  Rockwell  be  the 
authorized  agent  of  the  Board  for  carrying  out  the  work  to  its  com- 
pletion." 

At  the  July  meeting,  the  full  Board  being  present,  Mr.  Williston 
resigned  the  office  of  Trustee,  which  he  had  held  for  thirty-six  years. 
His  resignation  was  accepted,  and  Mr.  Richards  Bradley  was 
then  elected  his  successor  by  a  unanimous  vote. 

At  the  annual  meeting  in  August  the  following  officers  were 
chosen  for  the  ensuing  year: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

F.  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
James  M.  Tyler,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 

Asa  Gilkey,  Farmer. 

Frances  M.  Palmer,  Matron. 

J.   M.    Clark,  )    ^     .  ^,      .  . 

TT     ^1-      117U-.  \  Assistant  Physicians. 

H.     r.     Whitney,    \  ^ 

The  introduction  of  the  steam  heating  apparatus,  in  accordance 
with  the  vote  in  May,  was  completed  in  the  wings  of  the  main  build- 
ing this  season.  It  was  tested  on  the  loth  of  November  and  found 
to  work  most  satisfactorily.  At  this  point  further  work  in  this 
direction  was  suspended  until  the  opening  of  another  year. 

At  the  annual  election,  1876,  the  following  officers  were  duly 
chosen: — 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Frederick  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
J.  M.  Tyler,  Auditor. 


i84  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 
Asa  Gilkey,  Farmer. 

,  Matron. 

J.  M.  Clark,  ) 

F.    W.     Spaulding,   [  '"^^^'^tant  Physicians. 

The  office  of  Matron,  vacated  by  the  resignation  of  Miss  Palmer, 
was  not  filled  at  this  election. 

The  Report  of  the  Trustees  dwelt  at  some  length  upon  the  steady 
increase  of  the  dependent  classes,  seeking  admission  and  gaining  the 
preponderance  in  the  Institution  over  those  self-supporting,  and 
in  view  of  this  fact  the  necessity  for  an  increase  in  the  rate  allowed 
for  their  support,  in  order  that  the  receipts  necessary  for  maintaining 
the  establishment,  might  be  sufficient  for  the  creditable  accomplish- 
ment of  this  purpose.  From  their  report  I  make  the  following  sup- 
plementary extract: 

''The  Board  would  especially  press  upon  the  attention  of  the 
Legislature  the  fact  that  upwards  of  seventy  thousand  dollars 
have  been  expended  by  them  in  the  past  four  years  in  thoroughly 
modernizing  the  establishment.  The  increased  comforts  and 
advantages  resulting  from  the  changes  effected  have  been  most 
largely  shared  by  the  insane  of  the  State,  who  constitute  two-thirds 
of  the  resident  number  at  the  present  time,  and  the  proportion 
of  whom  is  steadily  increasing.  For  the  benefits  of  these  added 
appliances,  we  have  received  no  corresponding  compensation. 

''We  believe  the  Institution  to  be  on  a  par  with  those  of  the  neigh- 
boring States  in  all  essential  appointments,  and  in  return  ask  that 
the  State  allow  for  the  care  and  treatment  of  its  wards,  a  sum  more 
nearly  approximating  to  that  deemed  just  and  adequate  for  their 
proper  care  and  support  in  the  other  New  England  commonwealths. 

''  We  have  carefully  observed  the  operations  of  the  Asylum  and 
find  it  compares  favorably  in  its  results  with  kindred  institutions. 
In  directing  the  management  of  its  affairs  we  have  been  constantly 
mindful  of  the  rights  and  interests  of  the  State,  and  have  made  it  in 
all  practical  points  meet  its  requirements  by  receiving  iU  all  times 
applicants  of  whatever  class,  if  residents  of  Vermont,  although  this 
policy  it  will  be  seen,  has  been  adverse  to  the  pecuniary  interests  of 
the  Institution. 

"In  the  discharge  of  our  trust  it  has  been  our  constant  endeavor 
to  perfect  the  establishment  in  its  appointments  and  increase  year 


RPXORD  OF  THE  YEARS   i875-'79.  185 

by  year  its  benefits.  We  are  satisfied  that  under  its  present  organi- 
zation its  objects  are  being  carried  out  with  faithfuhiess,  and  a  good 
degree  of  success. 

"We  are  at  the  present  time  engaged  in  completing  the  introduc- 
tion of  the  steam  heating  apparatus.  It  was  so  far  accompUshed 
last  year  that  all  the  wards  in  the  main  building  were  heated  by 
this  means  during  the  winter  past.  There  still  remains  to  be  con- 
nected with  it  arrangements  for  supplying  the  establishment  with 
hot  water,  and  for  cooking  facilities,  which  will  involve  an  expendi- 
ture of  several  thousand  dollars  additional,  and  which  are  indispen- 
sably necessary." 

The  connection  of  steam  radiation  was  fully  completed  in  the 
center  building  and  at  the  Marsh  building  this  year,  so  that  all 
the  furnaces  heretofore  depended  upon  for  heating,  were  henceforth 
abandoned  in  every  part  of  the  Asylum. 

The  Superintendent's  Report  shows  four  hundred  and  eighty-nine 
inmates;  two  hundred  and  twenty-two  having  been  received,  and 
two  hundred  and  four  having  been  discharged,  since  the  last  biennial 
report. 

The  Organization  of  the  Institution,  etc.,  The  Plan,  Accommoda- 
tions and  Appointments  of  the  Institution,  Occupation,  Diversions, 
Correspondence  of  the  Inmates,  Religious  Privileges,  State  Aid 
and  Provision  for  the  Insane  Poor,  Legislation,  The  Modern  View 
of  Insanity  and  its  Treatment,  Morbid  Sympathy,  and  The  Lessons 
of  the  Past  Two  Years,  were  successively  made  the  topics  of  discus- 
sion and  comment.  The  following  remarks  upon  The  Modern  View 
of  Insanity  and  its  Treatment,  are  quoted  as  illustrating  the  theory 
and  practice  of  the  Asylum  at  this  period. 

"The  recognition  of  the  dependence  of  mental  disorder  upon 
diseased  brain  action,  marked  an  important  era  in  the  progress 
of  human  biology.  It  was  a  grand  stride  which  embraced  mental 
functions  within  physiological  laws.  It  opened  wide  the  door  to  all 
the  humanizing  influences  of  social  life. 

"  To  the  extent  that  all  physical  maladies  are  amenable  to  medical 
treatment,  mental  disorders  are  amenable  in  the  same  manner  as  all 
pathological  or  diseased  physiological  conditions  are  susceptible 
of  modification  and  change  by  the  use  of  medicinal  agents;  and 
so  have  mental  disorders  become  but  the  evidences  of  cerebral 
disease,  and  the  term  insanity  almost  a  misnomer. 

"But  the  recognition  of  the  brain  as  the  seat  of  morbid  action 
in  mental  derangement,  and  of  that  diseased  center  as  the  one 
toward  which  medical  treatment  may  be  properly  and  successfully 


i86  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

directed,  is  not  a  terminal  point.  It  is  a  basis  for  treatment  upon 
medical  principles,  but  medical  treatment  is  not  applicable  to  mental 
disorders  further  than  to  other  physical  diseases  in  general.  It  is 
not  absolute  in  curative  power.  To  institute  medication  in  igno- 
rance of  the  pathogenetic  causes,  will  accomplish  little  or  nothing; 
disappointment  will  be  the  ordinary  result. 

"  In  the  treatment  of  mental  disorders,  however,  we  are  some- 
times compelled  to  labor  under  such  difficulties,  at  least  for  a  time. 
We  recognize  the  seat  of  the  malady,  but  are  unable  to  fathom 
the  underlying  and  perpetuating  causes,  or  the  same  may  be  so 
complicated  and  intricate  that  only  a  partial  benefit  is  secured.  The 
mischief  is  kept  up  by  the  disturbing  causes,  which  treatment  only 
paliates  and  does  not  remove;  but  in  this  view  are  embodied  princi- 
ples which  are  as  yet  but  in  the  infancy  of  their  development. 

"Looking  backward,  the  maxim  has  been  'no  cure  but  by  medi- 
cine.' Looking  forward  with  unshaken  faith  in  the  steady  progress 
of  the  future,  and  to  the  gradual  development  of  clearer  knowledge 
concerning  the  laws  of  life,  it  will  become  more  and  more  the 
province  of  the  physician  to  point  out  the  way  to  health,  and  less 
and  less  to  counteract  and  combat  morbid  states  by  means  of  drugs. 

"  A  knowledge  of  physiological  laws  lies  at  the  very  basis  of  all 
medical  knowledge.  It  is  a  first  principle  that  every  physical  organ 
shall  respond  to  its  appropriate  stimulus,  and  a  healthful  activity 
results  from  due  stimulation.  But  only  within  certain  limits  does 
healthful  action  follow  even  its  legitimate  stimulus.  It  is  but  a  step 
from  pleasure  to  pain,  and  undue  excitement  is  attended  and  suc- 
ceeded by  evil  consequences.  We  have  often  to  look  for  the  causes 
of  physical  disorders  in  excesses  of  natural  functions  rather  than  to 
the  operation  of  extraneous  irritants.  Apply  this  principle  to 
mental  derangement,  and  a  broad  field  is  opened  to  view.  The 
mental  functions  respond  to  moral  stimuli,  hence  we  have  in  this 
direction  multiplied  agencies  of  great  poiwer  which  may  be  turned 
to  curative  ends." 
The  receipts  of  the  biennial  term  (August  ist,  '74  to 

August  ist,  '76)  were,  $180,818.55 

The  expenditures,  180,584.06 


Leaving  on  hand,  $234.49 

The  amount  expended  in  the  work  of  permanent  improvements, 
chiefly  in  constructing  steam  heating  and  ventilating  flues  and  extend- 
ing the  heating  apparatus,  in  this  period,  was  $17,313.54. 

The  foregoing  report  and  record  of  the  last  two  years  is  one 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   i875-'76.  187 

of  steady  progress,  and  unqualified  success.  In  many  respects  it 
must  be  regarded  as  a  period  of  advancement  in  respect  to  new 
methods.  Yet  the  Asylum  again  suflfered  an  assault,  which  after  the 
lapse  often  years  the  writer  cannot  but  characterize  as  causeless  and 
unwarranted. 

The  Legislature  of  1874  elected  to  the  office  of  Commissioner  of 
the  Insane  a  medical  gentleman  who  two  years  before  had  himself 
been  an  inmate  of  the  Asylum  for  a  number  of  months,  and  who  left 
it  before  convalescence  had  been  established.  It  will  doubtless 
be  conceded  that  one  who  had  sustained  such  relation  to  the  Insti- 
tution, could  hardly  be  unbiassed  in  his  judgment  respecting  it. 
The  outcome  of  it,  as  might  have  been  anticipated,  was  the 
arraignment  of  the  Institution  from  its  beginning  to  the  present 
time,  by  the  Commissioner  in  his  report  to  the  Legislature.  This 
Report  the  officers  of  the  Asylum  felt  compelled  in  self  defence 
to  review,  and  the  following  quotations  will  show  the  points  raised 
and  combated. 

Under  the  several  heads  of  the  History  of  the  Asylum,  the 
Financial  Relation  to  the  State,  the  Vital  Relation  to  the  State, 
Well  Established  Truths  and  Principles,  Does  this  Asylum  Apply 
these  Well  Established  Truths  and  Principles  in  the  Care  and  Treat- 
ment of  the  Patients?  and  Does  it  Meet  the  Requirements  of  a  Well 
Regulated  Institution  for  the  Cure  of  the  Insane?  Explanation  of 
the  Failure  of  this  Asylum  as  a  Hospital  for  the  Insane,  and  Recom- 
mendations, the  Commissioner  presents  his  points.  Concerning  the 
History  of  the  Asylum  nothing  need  here  be  repeated. 

The  Financial  Relation  to  the  State  shows  the  value  of  the 
Asylum  property  and  gives  the  whole  cost  of  the  establishment  prior 
to  1873  as  $234,870.00  which  is  substantially  correct.  Since  that 
time  there  has  been  expended  in  the  erection  of  two  additional 
wings,  boiler-house,  etc.,  as  shown  by  Report  of  1874,  $56,214.18, 
and  subsequently  as  shown  by  Report  of  the  present  year,  [1876], 
for  the  introduction  of  steam  heating  apparatus  $17,313.54,  or  the 
sum  of  $83,527.72,  in  the  past  four  years,  making  the  total  cost  of 
the  Asylum  to  the  present  time  $308,397.72;  but  in  making  these 
recent  improvements,  the  Trustees  have  incurred  a  debt  of  $45,000 
which  at  the  present  time  remains  unliquidated.  The  constructions 
of  1873  are  spoken  of  in  the  Commissioners  Report  as  "large  addi- 
tions," implying  at  least  a  corresponding  increase  in  capacity,  hence 
liable  to  mislead  the  public.  By  reference  to  the  Report  of  the 
Asylum  1874,  it  will  be  seen  that  these  enlargements  of  the  build- 
ings, were  not  in  fact  so  much  extensions  of  receiving  capacity,  as 


i88  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

the  creation  of  improved  accommodations,  for  simultaneously  with 
the  occupancy  of  these  new  wings,  that  of  the  entire  basement  story 
which  had  previously  been  occupied  by  patients  was  discontinued 
and  devoted  to  other  uses ;  and  the  twenty-six  additional  rooms 
gained  for  use  of  patients  by  the  erection  of  said  wings,  have  subse- 
quently been  offset  and  practically  lost,  by  the  substitution  of  tiers 
of  rooms  in  the  old  wings  for  other  necessary  uses,  so  that  in  reality 
there  has  been  no  extension  of  the  capacity  of  the  Institution  for  the 
past  fifteen  years. 

"If  from  the  cost  of  the  Institution  [$3o8.'387.72]  the  original  be- 
quest of  the  founder  [$io,ooo],  and  the  appropriations  made  by  the 
State  [$23,000]  be  taken,  there  remains  $275,397.72  as  the  result  of 
the  financial  management  of  the  Institution  to  the  present  time, 
^  more  than  two-thirds  '  of  which,  the  Commissioner  states,  '  should 
in  equity  belong  to  the  State,  and  be  divided  among  the  different 
towns  that  have  sent  patients  to  the  Asylum,'  etc.,  etc. 

"We  cannot  imagine  more  specious  logic  than  this  :  Nothing  in 
the  charter,  nor  in  statutes  subsequent  thereto,  provides  for  or  con- 
templates any  such  distribution  of  ownership.  We  herewith  submit 
the  financial  history  of  the  Institution,  showing  from  what  sources 
surplus  receipts  have  been  derived,  and  which  of  the  two — the  Insti- 
tution or  the  State,  has  in  reality  been  the  gainer,  by  what  the  Com- 
missioner styles  '  a  partnership  '  of  near  forty  years  duration. 

"  The  financial  relation  of  the  State  with  this  Institution  will  be 
best  understood  by  the  statement  hereto  appended.* 

"  With  more  of  truth  and  reason,  than  of  error  or  injustice,  might 
the  assertion  of  the  Commissioner  that  "  the  Corporation  have  all 
the  profits  and  the  State  a  dearly  bought  experience,"  be  reversed 
in  its  application. 

"  The  Commissioner  enters  into  an  '  analysis  of  the  additions  '  to 
the  buildings  from  time  to  time,  and  of  the  numbers,  and  relative 
proportions  of  each  class  of  patients  at  different  times,  with  the  view 
of  showing  that  the  additions  were  made  for  the  accommodation  of 
patients  from  other  States,  and  were  unnecessary  for  the  wants,  of 
this  State  alone,  and  states  that,  as  long  ago  as  the  year  1841,  eighty- 
two,  or  one-half  the  resident  number  were  from  out  of  the  State,  and 
the  number  of  this  class  has  been  increasing  year  by  year,  so  that 
the  present  year  it  is  one  hundred  and  sixty-two.' 

"The  exact  number  of  patients  from  out  of  the  State,  at  the  dates 
mentioned  is  correct ;  but   if  the  statement  is  designed  to  indicate 

*See  Table  of  Construction  in  Appendix. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   iSjs-'j^.  189 

that  the  proportionate  number  of  those  from  other  States,  to  those  of 
this,  has  been  steadily  increasing,  the  exact  reverse  of  this  is  the 
truth.  For  thirty  years  past,  we  have  exact  data  showing  the  num- 
ber of  each  class  each  year,  and  for  fifteen  years  past  [since  the 
capacity  of  the  Institution  has  been  practically  the  same  as  at 
present]  the  relative  proportions  of  State  and  outside  patients  have 
gradually  changed,  until  at  the  present  time  two-thirds  of  the  resi- 
dent number  are  from  Vermont,  and  the  actual  number  of  the  class 
of  private  patients,  was  the  lowest  on  the  first  of  August  last,  that  it 
had  been  at  any  time  since  the  year  1856. 

"Again  the  Commissioner  complains  that  Hhe  Trustees  having 
the  sole  superintendence  and  direction  of  the  Asylum  '  have  planned 
these  additions  and  executed  their  plans  without  previously  consul- 
ting the  Legislature  of  the  State,  and  have  almost  invariably  after- 
wards as  each  one  was  made,  in  their  own  reports  or  through  those 
of  the  Commissioners  of  the  Insane,  requested  the  Legislature  to 
contribute  towards  paying  for  them  by  increasing  the  price  of 
board,  etc. 

"  It  must  be  evident  when  the  actual  independent  status  of  the 
Asylum  is  considered,  that  consultation  with  the  Legislature  in  mat- 
ters which  the  Trustees  were  specially  responsible  for  in  the  discharge 
of  their  trusts,  would  be  at  least  anomalous  ;  and  we  are  not  a  little 
astonished  at  the  succeeding  statements  relative  to  applications  for 
increase  of  pay  after  each  addition  made  to  the  Asylum  accommo- 
dations. That  this  statement  was  somewhat  inconsiderately  made 
appears  evident  from  the  contradictory  facts  given  before  and  after, 
to  wit:  I  St.  That  three  of  the  seven  additions  enumerated  as  having 
been  made  to  the  Institution,  [after,  in  the  opinion  of  the  Commis- 
sioner, it  had  attained  its  proper  capacity]  were  made  before  any 
increase  was  made  in  the  rate  charged  for  State  beneficiaries.  And 
all  the  additions  previous  to  the  last  were  made  while  the  State  price 
did  not  exceed  $1.75  per  week.  2nd.  That  until  the  year  1855  the 
State  paid  but  $1.50  per  week,  f  r.75  from  that  date  to  1864,  $2.25 
from  1864  to  1869,  and  $3.00  subsequently.  Showing  that  in  the 
whole  forty  years  there  had  been  but  three  changes  of  rate  by  the 
Legislature,  and  these  changes  when  made,  did  not  iiunicdiately 
follow  upon  the  erection  of  buildings,  as  appears  by  the  date  of  the 
additions,  two  or  more  years  having  intervened  in  each  case  between 
the  last  erections  and  the  change  of  rate,  and  this  being  necessitated 
more  by  the  times,  than  by  reason  of  enlargement  as  charged.  If  it 
be  still  affirmed  that  the  statement  applied  to  'requests'  not  actual 
changes,  this  too  is  squarely  contradicted   by  the  assertion  that  '  the 


I90  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

State  has  with  confiding  generosity  granted  their  requests,  with  only 
one  exception  we  beUeve,  and  that  the  last  one  made.' 

''The  Commissioner  refers  to  statements  made  by  the  Officers  of 
the  Asylum  in  their  Report  of  1874,  [and  which  are  also  repeated  in 
that  of  the  present  year]  concerning  the  cost  of  the  support  of  the 
pauper  insane  in  the  Asylums  of  New  England,  which  averages 
more  than  $4.00  per  week,  and  says  that  the  chronic  insane  in  the 
Asylum  at  Cranston,  R.  L,  and  Tewksbury,  Mass.,  were  not  included 
in  the  average.  This  was  not  as  he  charitably  presumes  '  an  unin- 
tentional error.'  It  was  not  the  design  of  the  Officers  of  the  Asylum 
to  compare  the  cost  of  the  support  of  the  insane  in  the  State 
Asylums,  with  that  of  their  support  in  Institutions  not  exclusively 
devoted  to  their  care.  The  Institutions  at  Cranston  and  Tewksbury 
are  State  Almshouses,  and  hence  under  a  different  system  of 
economy  from  that  of  the  Asylums  for  the  Insane,  and  ought  no 
more  to  be  included  in  comparisons  of  cost,  than  the  Almshouses  of 
the  towns  in  this  State,  Comparisons  are  useless,  unless  confined  to 
institutions  of  the  same  class. 

"The  Vital  Relation  to  the  State,  as  shown  by  tabular  statistics 
in  the  Report  of  the  Commissioner,  give  results  totally  at  variance 
with  facts. 

"  The  (Commissioner  has  not  followed  statistical  law,  in  arriving  at 
his  percentages,  which  is  that  the  per  cent,  of  recoveries  should  be 
based  upon  the  admissions,  and  that  of  deaths  upon  the  average 
resident  number  of  each  year,  or  period  of  years. 

"His  results  are,  therefore,  inaccurate,  except  as  to  the  per  cent, 
of  recoveries  in  the  first  years,  which  could  not  be  otherwise,  as  at 
the  opening  of  the  establishment  there  were  none  to  be  taken  into 
account  with  those  who  were  subsequently  received.  In  every  other 
period,  however,  there  was  a  previously  accumulated  burden  to  be 
considered,  adverse  to  recoveries,  but  bearing  constantly  upon  the 
death  rate.  The  premises  being  erroneous,  it  follows,  of  course, 
that  all  the  conclusions  from  them  are  calculated  to  mislead  the 
reader. 

"The  first  table  compares  the  per  cent,  of  recoveries  in  the  first 
two  with  those  of  the  last  two  years.  It  is  correctly  stated  at  32.62 
for  the  first  period,  but  not  for  the  last,  the  percentage  being  25.22 
per  cent,,  instead  of  8.08,  a  very  vital  difference. 

"The  per  cent,  of  deaths  is  incorrectly  made  both  in  regard  to  the 
first  and  last  periods  being  cast  upon  the  whole  number  under  treat- 
ment in  each  instance,  instead  of  the  average  resident  number,  which 
latter  basis  gives  for  the  first  two  years  5.55  per  cent.,  and  5.66  per 
cent,  for  the  last  two,  a  scarcely  material  difference. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   i875-'76.  191 

"The  same  table  shows  in  the  second  place  the  percentage  of 
recoveries  for  the  two  years  ending  the  first  decade  of  the  Institu- 
tion, and  in  the  third  place  the  same  for  the  two  years  just  ended  ; 
and  here  we  find  widely  varying  results.  The  first  period  shows 
38.15  per  cent,  of  recoveries  and  9.24  per  cent,  of  deaths ;  while  the 
latter  period  gives  25.22  per  cent,  of  the  former  to  5.66  per  cent,  of 
the  latter. 

"The  second  table  gives  the  comparative  results  of  the  first  and 
the  last  ten  years. 

"The  per  cent,  of  recoveries  for  the  first  period  is  correctly  stated 
by  the  Commissioner  at  42.05,  but  for  the  second  period  is  about  10 
per  cent,  higher  than  there  given,  viz.,  32.04. 

"The  percentage  of  deaths  is  7.42  for  the  first  period  and  7.02 
for  the  last,  there  being  a  fractional  difference  in  favor  of  the  last  ten 
years. 

"The  third  table  compares  the  first  seven  years  with  the  year 
1854  alone,  and  is  the  most  fallacious  of  all.  The  latter  year,  as 
the  Commissioner  states,  was  selected  because  the  whole  number 
under  treatment,  (that  is  those  in  the  Asylum  at  the  beginning  of 
the  year,  and  those  admitted  during  that  year,  taken  together)  coin- 
cided y^\\.\\  the  number  admitted  during  the  first  named  period;  obvi- 
ously no  such  comparison  could  have  been  made,  had  statistical 
laws  been  followed,  unless  for  the  purpose  of  supporting  a  precon- 
ceived theory;  however,  the  legitimate  results  of  the  comparison 
show  a  larger  per  cent,  of  both  recoveries  and  deaths,  than  during 
the  first  seven  years,  hence  so  far  as  the  percentage  of  recoveries 
goes  is  in  favor  of  the  single  years'  results. 

"We  do  not  propose,  however,  in  refutation  of  garbled  statistics, 
to  resort  to  the  like  method;  but  rather  to  rest  upon  the  whole  his- 
tory of  the  establishment,  for  its  statistical  results,  and  then,  as  far 
as  possible,  compare  them  with  the  results  of  the  other  New  England 
Asylums. 

"  The  large  number  of  chronic  cases  carried  by  the  Institution, 
necessarily  limits  the  admissions,  hence  we  find  in  most  of  the  New 
England  Institutions  a  more  rapid  movement  of  the  population  than 
in  this, — and  as  the  recoveries  come  from  the  current  admissions 
almost  wholly,  we  should  expect  to  find  a  larger  percentage  in  those 
where  the  movement  is  greatest. 

"  The  statistics  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  whole  fortv  years 
are  as  follows:  Percentage  of  recoveries,'  42.09;  of  deaths,  8.35. 
For  the  last  ten  years  they  are  as  follows:  Percentage  of  recoveries, 
32.04;  of  deaths,  7.02. 


192  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

"The  mean  average  of  recoveries  and  deaths  in  the  State  Hos- 
pitals of  New  England:  Maine,  New  Hampshire,  Worcester,  Taun- 
ton and  Northampton,  Mass.;  Butler  Hospital,  R.  L,  and  Connecti- 
cut, for  the  ten  years  past,  is  as  follows:  Percentage  of  recoveries, 
32.14;  of  deaths,  10.25.* 

"The  Commissioner  justly  anticipates  the  explanation  that  may 
be  given  of  a  lessened  number  of  recoveries  in  the  latter  years,  but 
as  the  corrected  statistics  show  so  much  less  difference  in  the  actual 
results,  it  is  scarcely  necessary  to  refer  to  them.  A  careful  and 
somewhat  extended  analysis  of  Asylum  statistics  by  Dr.  Jarvis  some 
years  ago,  amounted  to  the  conclusion,  that  of  every  one  hundred 
patients  treated,  forty-two  would  recover,  eight  die,  and  the  remain- 
ing fifty  continue  in  a  state  of  mental  invalidism.  In  the  whole  his- 
tory of  the  Vermont  Asylum  the  results  do  not  materially  vary  from 
this.  It  is  true  that  the  Institution  has  retained  these  chronic  cases, 
where  other  asylums  have  discharged  them.  The  point  is  not 
waived  by  the  statement  that  'they  are  only  transferred  into  other 
institutions'  so  far  as  the  statistics  of  the  Asylums  from  which  they 
are  thus  transferred  are  concerned,  for  they  are  counted  as  dis- 
charged there,  whether  they  go  to  other  institutions  or  elsewhere, 
and  in  view  of  the  fact  just  stated  regarding  the  curability  of  insanity, 
the  charge  that  the  chronic  insane  cared  for  in  the  Vermont  Asylum 
are  'of  its  own  making,'  falls  to  the  ground  of  its  own  weight,  and 
could  hardly  have  been  made  by  any  careful,  candid  and  unpreju- 
diced mind. 

"Accepting-  as  'Well  Established  Truths  and  Principles'  that 
'  insanity  is  a  disease  of  the  brain,'  and  that  it  'is  a  disease  amenable 
to  proper  treatment  in  a  large  proportion  of  cases  for  its  cure,  and 
in  many  other  cases  for  its  amelioration,'  and  that  'institutions 
of  proper  size,  and  under  good  management,  and  with  all  the 
necessary  appliances  and  appurtenances  have  an  advantage  in  the 
treatment  of  insane  patients  over  those  treated  at  their  own  homes, 
both  in  economy  and  success  in  the  way  of  cure,'  the  three  points 
made  by  the  Commissioner,  we  pass  to  the  in([uiry,  'Docs  this 
As\luin  apply  these  well-established  'i'ruths  and  Principles  in  the 
care  and  treatment  of  its  patients,  and  does  it  meet  the  require- 
ments of  a  well  regulated  institution  for  the  care  of  the  insane?' 

■^  111  Conticclicut  the  eiiflil  years  existence  of  the  State  llospilal  at  Mifldle- 
tovvn,  and  the  two  previous  years  of  the  Hartford  Retreat  (which,  until  the  opening 
of  Middletown  Institution,  served  the  purposes  of  the  State),  are  inchided  to  make 
up  the  period. 


RECORD    OF    THE   YEARS    iSys-'y'a.  193 

"  In  the  '  opinion '  of  the  Commissioner  '  it  does  not  now,  and  has 
not  since  the  first  ten  years.'  Here  we  take  issue.  The  capacity  of 
the  Institution  is  complained  of,  as  being  '  far  beyond  the  size  capa- 
ble of  the  best  success  in  the  cure  of  insanity.' 

"  This  is  a  point  that  has  been  much  discussed  by  those  engaged 
in  the  management  of  such  establishments,  and  the  Association 
of  Superintendents  of  the  insane  asylums  of  the  United  States, 
has  twice  placed  itself  on  record  in  this  matter.  Formerly  the  cura- 
bility of  insanity  was  regarded  as  much  greater  than  at  present,  and 
acting  upon  this  belief,  it  was  the  expression  of  that  body  that  '  two 
hundred  and  fifty  was  the  highest  desirable  number  to  be  treated  in 
one  institution.'  This  was  twenty-five  years  ago.  Fifteen  years 
elapsed  and  during  that  time  the  pressure  upon  all  the  asylums  in 
the  country  greatly  increased.  New  institutions  were  not  created  as 
rapidly  as  they  were  demanded.  This  led  to  the  adoption  of  the 
policy  quite  universally  of  discharging  the  chronic  to  make  room  for 
the  acute  cases.  This  filled  the  almshouses  with  incurables  and 
entailed  manifold  evils.  Then  arose  the  question  of  separate  provis- 
ion for  the  two  classes.  Institutions  exclusively  for  the  incurables 
were  opposed  by  the  association,  on  the  ground  that  where  curative 
agencies  were  not  deemed  indispensable,  the  character  of  asylums 
would  tend  to  degenerate  into  that  of  almshouses — the  question 
of  dollars  and  cents  being  uppermost,  and  the  policy  of  providing 
for  all  in  a  uniform  manner,  whatever  might  be  their  prospect 
for  recovery,  was  favored,  as  having  on  its  side  the  best  interests  of 
the  insane. 

"In  1868,  therefore,  the  same  body  expressed  the  opinion  that 
institutions  '  embracing  the  usual  proportions  of  curable  and  incur- 
able insane,  in  a  particular  community,  may  be  properly  carried 
to  the  extent  of  accommodating  six  hundred  patients,'  and  such 
is  the  capacity  of  many  of  the  asylums  since  erected,  or  in  process 
of  erection  at  the  present  time,  and  others  in  existence  previously 
have  since  been  enlarged  to  correspond  with  the  later  conclusions. 
It  will  be  seen  therefore,  that  the  Trustees  of  the  Vermont  Asylum 
have  not  pursued  a  policy  contradictory  to  the  views  which  have 
shaped  State  policy  throughout  this  country. 

"  Again,  the  Commissioner  urges  that  this  Institution  *  has  put 
upon  its  superintendents  such  a  burden  and  so  much  labor,  that 
they  have  little  time  to  use,  and  improve  those  high  qualifications  of 
medical  skill  and  experience,  for  which  they  were  mainly  selected,' 
and  further,  that  '  they  are  reduced  by  this  pressure  upon  their  time 
and  energies  to  mere  superintendents  comparatively,  and  anything 
like  individual  treatment  of  patients  is  impossible.' 


194  ANNALS  OF.  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

"  It  is  true  that  the  responsibilities,  attaching  to  such  positions 
are  onerous  enough.  The  Commissioner,  however,  fully  agrees  that 
in  the  organization  of  an  establishment  of  chis  kind,  its  practical 
working  'must  be  under  the  control  of  one  man,  to  act  both  as 
superintendent  and  physician,'  hence  it  follows  that  the  efficiency  of 
all  such  establishments  must  depend  upon  the  systematic  carrying 
out  of  the  working  plan  in  its  practical  details.  It  is  not  expected 
that  the  physician  in  chief  of  a  hospital  will  perform  all  the  medical 
and  surgical  duties  incident  to  his  charge  personally,  although 
the  responsibility  is  his;  but  that  he  will  be  the  counsellor  of  his 
medical  assistants,  and  the  director  of  the  working  corps,  in  every 
department. 

"  In  reject  to  the  number  of  assistants  and  subordinates  neces- 
sary for  the  efficient  administration  of  its  internal  economy  he  is 
expected  to  be  the  judge;  and  if  the  superintendents  of  the  Vermont 
Asylum  have  had  any  cause  to  complain  of  inability  to  exercise  in 
the  most  efficient  manner  their  prerogatives,  it  has  not  been  from 
any  limitation  on  the  part  of  those  having  the  oversight  and  direc- 
tion of  its  affairs,  but  solely  from  the  lack  of  means;  and  certainly 
no  person  practically  acquainted  with  the  management  of  asylums, 
would  consider  the  professional  duties  incident  to  the  care  of  a 
household  of  the  proportions  of  recent  and  chronic  cases  which 
at  present  compose  the  numbers  under  treatment,  more  difficult  than 
would  be  the  care  of  half  the  number  composed  largely  of  acute 
cases. 

"Again  the  Commissioner  asserts  that  'the  Institution  has  not 
increased  its  appliances  and  facilities  for  cure,  as  the  size  increased.' 
In  a  word,2the  reader  is  led  to  infer  that  the  Institution  saw  its  best 
days  before  it  had  existed  ten  years,  and  has  been  gradually  declin- 
ing for  the  last  thirty  years,  until  it  has  now  reached  its  lowest  ebb. 

"We  note  with  special  astonishment  the  remarks  of  the  Commis- 
sioner relative  to  religious  exercises,  and  amusements.  Although 
the  history  of  the  Institution  as  embodied  in  its  annual  reports, 
seems  to  have  been  thoroughly  reviewed,  he  seems  not  to  have 
taken  into  account  its  small  beginning  and  gradual  enlargement,  and 
that  many  things  which  were  practicable  in  its  early  years,  became 
impracticable  after  the  establishment  outgrew  the  family  organiza- 
tion. Without  enumerating  the  list  of  amusements  specified,  and 
lugubriously  reflected  upon  by  the  Commissioner,  suffice  it  to  say, 
that  at  no  period  in  the  history  of  the  Institution  has  greater  atten- 
tion been  paid  to  the  subject  of  diversions,  and  to  the  securing 
of  adequate  religious  privileges,  than  during  the  Commissioner's 
term  of  office.     So  important  have  these  influences  seemed  to  us. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   iSys-'yd.  195 

that  we  have  each  year  marked  out  and  carried  out  a  regular  course 
of  entertainments,  consisting  of  social  parties,  dramatic  exhibitions, 
exhibitions  of  magic  lantern  views  with  descriptive  readings, 
concerts,  lectures,  etc.,  all  of  which  have  been  enumerated  with  their 
dates,  in  the  Report  of  the  Officers  of  the  Asylum  for  the  period 
just  past — and  I  find  by  reference  to  memoranda  made  at  the  time 
that  the  Commissioner  himself  was  present  on  no  less  than  four  occa- 
sions at  these  entertainments,  yet  no  mention  whatever  is  made  of 
anything  of  the  kind. 

"  It  has  been  the  effort  of  the  officers  of  the  Asylum  to  secure  to 
its  inmates  as  far  as  possible,  all  those  privileges  and  diversions  from 
which  they  are,  by  isolation  from  society,  deprived ;  and  if  in  any 
one  direction  our  efforts  have  been  especially  successful,  we  think 
they  have  been  in  this;  and  in  our  arrangement  for  Sunday  services, 
we  secure  every  possible  advantage  to  our  household  by  rotation  in 
our  clerical  supply,  thus  affording  to  those  of  all  denominations  the 
valued  privilege  of  hearing  in  turn  their  own. 

"  The  officers  of  the  Institution  do  not  regard  the  general  plan 
of  the  Asylum  as  specially  defective.  When  founded  more  than 
a  generation  ago,  it  was  in  accordance  with  the  most  approved  arch- 
itecture of  the  time,  and  though  built  by  successive  additions  of 
wings,  and  carried  ultimately  somewhat  beyond  the  original  design, 
the  extensions  have  nevertheless  followed  the  arrangement  of  insti- 
tutions planned  for  the  like  capacity  of  this  at  their  beginning,  and 
which  have  been  found  to  embody  the  greatest  practical  advan- 
tages. 

''Minor  defects  have  been  mainly  remedied,  and  the  recent  im- 
provements made,  will  be  found  more  fully  detailed  in  the  report  of 
the  operations  of  the  Asylum  for  the  biennial  period  just  passed,  to 
which  we  would  refer  in  detail,  and  respectfully  request  its  examina- 
tion in  connection  with  that  of  the  Commissioner. 

^'  To  the  complaints  that  the  Institution  has  locked  doors  and 
guarded  windows,  and  that  mechanical  restraints  are  employed,  we 
have  only  to  reply,  that  we  have  in  use  no  safe-guards,  nor  restraints 
not  deemed  essential  to  the  proper  management  of  every  similar 
institution  throughout  our  land. 

"The  complaint  against  the  enclosed  airing  courts  for  the  use  of 
patients  who  cannot  with  propriety  be  taken  out  upon  the  open 
grounds  for  exercise,  ignores  the  fact  that  such  persons  ought  rather 
to  be  protected  from,  than  exposed  to  public  observation,  and  that 
such  provision  is  of  the  most  vital  importance  in  securing  to  this 
class,  who  otherwise  could  rarely  be  taken  out,  the  constant  hygienic 


196  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

advantages  of  open  air  and  sunshine,  in  common  with  the  larger 
class,  who  from  the  wards  in  general,  enjoy  their  daily  exercise  in 
the  eighteen  acres  of  unenclosed  grounds  in  front  of  the  x^sylum,  or 
in  longer  walks  along  the  roadside  or  in  the  fields. 

"The  Commissioner's  ^Explanation  of  the  failure  of  this  Asylum 
as  a  Hospital  for  the  Insane,'  calls  for  little  final  comment. 
The  points  tiave  been  all  met  in  the  preceding  pages  of  this  review. 
The  ^melancholy  results,  as  shown  by  the  vital  statistics,'  have  been 
corrected,  and  will  be  seen  to  be  favorable  to  its  'management' 
rather  than  otherwise,  and  creditable  in  comparison  with  the  other 
State  institutions  of  New  England. 

"Its  'policy'  in  respect  to  extension,  has  been  shown  to  be  con- 
sonant with  the  general  State  policy;  and  the  assertion  that  'all  its 
obligations  were  to  this  State '  rests  upon  no  shadow  of  foundation. 
The  Commissioner  conveys  the  impression  that  the  interests  of  the 
insane  in  this  State  have  been  greatly  prejudiced  by  the  admission 
of  those  from  other  states,  and  the  inference  is  drawn  that  because 
the  Institution  was  patronized  by  the  State,  it  should  have  devoted 
itself  solely  to  its  interests. 

"That  no  such  exclusiveness,  however,  was  contemplated,  or 
entered  into  originally,  is  sufficiently  evident  by  the  proviso  of  1837, 
giving  residents  a  first  or  preferred  right;  hence  such  an  assumption 
at  the  present  time  is  unwarranted,  as  is  that  relative  to  the  building 
up  of  an  establishment  beyond  the  capacity  required  for  the  number 
belonging  to  this  State,  and  the  consequent  reception  of  a  limited 
number  from  other  States,  as  having  been  detrimental  to  those  from 
Vermont.  It  is  from  these  that  the  surplus  receipts  of  the  Institu- 
have  been  largely  derived,  and  ouf  of  which  have  been  afforded 
many  of  the  advantages  all  have  enjoyed. 

"Its  'enormous  expense  to  the  State,'  pecuniarily,  and  'of  the 
lives  and  welfare  of  citizens  committed  to  its  care,'  will  be  best 
understood  by  the  statistical  facts.  Carefully  prepared,  and  herewith 
submitted.* 

"  To  the  '  Recommendation '  of  the  Commissioner,  that  '  the  Leg- 
islature dissolve  the  unnatural  relationship  of  the  State  to  the  Ver- 
mont Asylum  for  the  Insane,'  and  erect  as  soon  as  may  be  a  Hos- 
pital for  the  Insane,  which  shall  be  under  its  own  control  and  man- 
agement,' the  Trustees  have  only  to  say  that  this  is  a  question  for 
that  body  to  decide;  perhaps  such  a  step  would  relieve  the  Vermont 
Asylum  of  some  of  the  gross  misrepresentations  to  which  it  is  now 
subjected.  The  Trustees  have  kept  scrupulous  faith  with  the  State 
*See  Tables  of  General  Results  in  Appendix. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  i875-'76.  197 

in  respect  to  the  relations  existing  between  it  and  the  Asylum,  and 
believe  the  interests  of  the  former  have  been  better  served  thereby, 
than  have  those  of  the  latter.  They  would,  however,  respectfully 
urge  the  insufficiency  of  the  allowance  made  by  the  Legislature  for 
the  support  of  the  State  insane,  and  feel  that  it  is  unfair  at  least 
to  institute  critical  comparisons  between  this  Asylum  and  those 
of  the  neighboring  States,  without" taking  likewise  into  account  what 
Vermont  has  done  towards  securing  adequate  provision  and  proper 
care  of  its  insane,  in  proportion  to  the  other  States. 

"The  ofificers  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  feel  that  it  is  quite  time 
that  the  relations  of  the  State  to  the  Institution  should  be  fully  com- 
prehended; and  that  if  these  relations  are  to  be  continued,  there 
should  be  an  end  of  all  antagonism,  and  that  henceforth  a  more  lib- 
eral policy,  and  a  more  charitable  feeling  should  be  exercised  toward 
the  Institution.  These  chronic  complaints  and  expressions  of  dis- 
trust, are  alike  injurious  to  the  public  and  the  Institution,  and  ought 
for  the  common  good  to  be  silenced. 

J.  DRAPER, 
Secretary  of  Board  of  Trustees  and  Superintendent. 
Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane,  Brattleboro,  Oct.  25,  1876." 

The  Legislature  of  this  year  (1876)  amended  its  standing  Rules, 
by  creating  a  joint  committee  consisting  of  five  members  of  the 
House  with  three  of  the  Senate,  to  take  into  consideration  all  mat- 
ters relating  to  the  insane,  and  to  be  denominated  the  "Committee 
on  the  Insane."  This  Committee  visited  the  Asylum  and  made  the 
following  Report : 

To  THE  Honorable  Senate  and  House  of  Representatives 
NOW  IN  Session  : 

"Your  Committees,  to  whom  was  referred  that  part  of  the  Gov- 
ernor's message  relating  to  the  insane,  beg  leave  to  state  that 
although  they  were  appointed  by  each  House  as  separate  standing 
committees,  yet  they  have  acted  jointly  in  their  investigations,  and, 
therefore,  take  the  liberty  of  submitting  their  conclusions  in  a  joint 
report. 

"Before  entering  upon  a  statement  of  our  finding  of  facts  and 
the  conclusions  deducible  therefrom,  it  may  be  pertinent  to  give  a 
brief  resume  of  the  oft-repeated  history  and  relation  of  the  Asylum 
for  the  insane  at  Brattleboro  to  the  State. 

"The  Institution  had  its  origin  in  a  bequest  by  Mrs.  Anna 
Marsh,  of  Hinsdale,  New  Hampshire,  of  ten  thousand  dollars,  and 
was  incorporated  by  the  Legislature  in  November,   1834.     From  the 


198  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

years  1835  ^^  '^43  ^^^^  State  donated,  in  a  series  of  installments,  the 
sum  of  twenty-three  thousand  dollars  for  the  benefit  of  the  Listitu- 
tion,  and  by  the  terms  of  the  acts  of  appropriation  passed  in  1840  and 
1843  (that  of  1843  being  the  last  appropriation  to  aid  in  building) 
the  State  reserved  a  lien  upon  the  real  estate  of  the  corporation,  to 
be  enforced  whenever  the  Institution  should  cease  to  exist  for  the 
purposes  contemplated  in  its  charter.  Shortly  after  our  appointment, 
we  requested  the  Commissioner  for  the  Insane,  Dr.  Atwater  of  Bur- 
lington, and  the  Superintendent  of  the  Asylum,  Dr.  Draper  of  Brat- 
tleboro,  to  meet  us  at  Montpelier,  which  they  did  ;  and  such  inform- 
ation upon  the  questions  at  issue  was  at  that  meeting  obtained  as 
was  practicable.  Afterwards  on  the  last  day  of  October  and  first  of 
November,  we  visited  the  Asylums  at  Brattleboro  and  Northampton, 
Massachusetts,  making  as  careful  an  examination  and  comparison  of 
the  two  Listitutions  and  their  methods  of  operation  as  we  were  able  in 
the  time  expended.  Subsequently,  we  again  met  the  Commissioner 
and  Superintendent  at  Montpelier,  concluding  our  investigations  at 
that  hearing. 

"  Is  the  treatment  of  the  insane  at  the  Brattleboro  Asylum  suc- 
cessful ?  This  question  we  deem  to  be  the  one  of  paramount  im- 
portance and  upon  its  solution  practically  depends  the  whole  issue. 

"Has  the  Institution  the  means  and  appliances  which,  if  brought 
into  proper  use,  would  secure  the  result  desired  ?  This  leads  us  to 
the  consideration  of  the  location  and  construction  of  the  Asylum 
buildings,  their  capacity  and  adaptation  for  the  purposes  used. 

"  The  buildings  are  located  about  one  mile  from  the  depot  at  the 
beautiful  village  of  Brattleboro,  having  in  their  immediate  vicinity 
grounds  and  surroundings  affording  a  most  satisfactory  opportunity 
for  pleasant  outside  exercise.  The  main  or  principal  structure  stands 
upon  the  east  side  of  the  road  leading  from  Brattleboro  northerly,- 
and  the  so-called  Marsh  Building  upon  the  west  side  of  the  road,  op- 
posite the  main  buildings.  Their  external  appearance  is  not  that  of 
a  "huge  pile  of  brick  and  mortar,"  but  in  architectural  design  and 
construction  is  such  as  would  rank  fairly  with  other  buildings  of  like 
character  in  the  country.  The  internal  arrangement  of  the  rooms  in 
the  principal  buildings,  as  to  size,  Hght,  cleanliness,  ventilation  and 
means  of  controlling  temperature,  was  a  matter  which  attracted  our 
special  attention  and  most  careful  examination,  and  upon  the  whole 
we  were  inclined  to  the  opinion  that  it  was  in  neither  respects  men- 
tioned substantially  defective  or  objectionable,  although  some  of  us 
thought  a  few  of  the  sleeping  rooms  hardly  sufficient  in   size.     We 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  i875-'76.  199 

did  not  find  the  internal  construction  of  the  Marsh  Building  as  satis- 
factory as  that  of  the  others  in  all  respects,  although  not  very  mate- 
rially exposed  to  criticism,  but  we  were  assured  by  the  Trustees  that 
it  was  their  present  purpose  to  overhaul  and  thoroughly  renovate 
this  building,  as  soon  as  found  practicable,  considering  their  means 
for  so  doing. 

"We  discovered  no  want  of  furniture,  bedding,  etc,  either  in 
quantity  or  quality,  and  thought  it  sufficient  for  the  comfort  of  the 
patients. 

"Although  of  minor  importance,  perhaps,  in  some  respects,  yet 
we  think  it  our  duty  to  suggest  that  a  comparatively  inconsiderable 
outlay  in  the  direction  of  additional  adornment  of  the  walls  is  desir- 
able, and  might  at  least  produce  an  appreciably  beneficial  result. 

"A  few  words  about  the  court  yards  connected  with  the  buildings 
may  not  be  out  of  place.  They  were  provided  for  the  purpose  of 
securing  a  more  extensive  and  less  expansive  admission  of  a  certain 
class  of  patients  to  air  and  exercise  than  they  would  otherwise  have. 
The  one  connected  with  the  main  buildings  seems  not  to  be  faulty, 
but  that  adjacent  to  the  Marsh  Building  is  certainly  "not  a  thing  of 
beauty,"  however  well  it  may  serve  purposes  of  utility,  although  in 
justice  it  may  be  said  that  this  yard  was  designed  and  is  used  for  a 
class  so  near  a  state  of  dementia  as  to  be  apparently  hardly  capable  of 
discerning  or  api)reciating  beauty.  This  much  will  suffice  concerning 
the  location  and  construction,  external  and  internal,  of  the 'building 

"Have  the  buildings  sufficient  capacity  for  the  number  of  pa- 
tients now  there  in  keeping,  and,  if  so,  is  it  for  the  best  interests  of 
successful  treatment  that  so  large  a  number  should  be  kept  together 
in  one  asylum  under  one  direction  and  management? 

"  If  the  second  question  should  be  unconditionally  answered  in 
the  affirmative,  the  first  might  be  relieved  of  any  considerable  diffi- 
culty, as  the  buildings  are  not  over-crowded,  but  upon  the  second 
question  hangs  the  doubt.  It  is  probable  that  a  preponderance  of 
opinion  of  the  experts  upon  this  subject  is  in  favor  of  limiting  the 
number  of  patients  in  any  institution  for  the  treatment  of  the  insane, 
to  three  hundred,  claiming,  as  reasons  for  that  belief,  that  each  hos- 
pital must  be  under  the  sole  control  of  one  man,  to  act  both  as  su-- 
perintendent  and  physician,  who  cannot  properly  discharge  his  duty 
to  each  patient  having  a  larger  number  than  that  under  his  care  for 
treatment,  and  further,  that  they  cannot  be  as  well  classified  and  are 
exposed  to  unreasonable  and  extraordinary  perils  of  epidemics  and 
casualties.  Upon  the  other  side,  it  is  urged  that  no  detriment  results 
from  the  keeping  together  of  a  very  much  larger  number,  and  that 


200  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

the  whole  question  is  one  of  comparative  mear^s  and  necessities. 
That  while  one  superintendent  may  not  be  able  to  treat  and  direct 
the  treatment  and  care  of  a  number  exceeding  three  hundred  pa- 
tients, yet  he  may  be  entirely  able  to  faithfully  and  efficiently  dis- 
charge his  obligation  to  an  institution  having  many  more  than  that, 
among  which  are  a  proportion  of  incurables,  sufficiently  large  to  re- 
duce the  number  of  those  who  could  possibly  be  benefitted  by 
treatment  to  much  less  than  three  hundred.  Quite  a  proportion  of 
the  inhabitants  of  the  Asylum  at  Brattleboro  are  in  a  chronic  stage 
of  disease,  many  being  hopelessly  incurable,  and  being  past  the  reach 
of  medical  treatment  do  not  necessarily  engage  any  considerable  at- 
tention from  the  Superintendent  as  directing  physician.  The  theory 
of  the  learned  upon  this  subject  seems  to  favor  about  three  hundred 
patients  as  the  maximum  number  allowable,  while  the  practice  of  the 
same  enlightened  class,  particularly  in  public  institutions  in  this 
country,  tolerate  a  much  larger  number. 

"Next,  is  the  treatment  of  the  inmates  at  the  Vermont  Asylum  of 
that  approved  character  as  would  be  expected  to  produce  reasonably 
beneficial  effects  ?  We  have  heard  no  complaint  about  the  manner 
in  which  they  are  clothed  or  fed,  and  certainly  discerned  no  cause 
for  any.  We  were  not  able  to  determine  to  our  utmost  satisfaction 
as  to  the  efficiency  of  their  open  air  exercise,  although  we  were  as- 
sured by  the  managers  that  it  was  fully  up  to  their  needs  and  the  re- 
quirements of  health.  Judging  from  what  we  saw  and  were  able  to 
learn  respecting  diversions  by  way  of  entertainment  and  amusements, 
it  would  be  unjust  to  find  the  management  markedly  faulty  in  that 
direction. 

''We  found  a  comparatively  small  number  of  piatients  undergoing 
different  kinds  or  forms  of  restraint,  but  in  no  instance,  in  our  belief, 
did  the  cause  or  method  involve  cruelty  or  impropriety.  A  few  were 
secluded  by  being  locked  in  separate  rooms,  but  this  small  number 
included  none  whom  it  was  safe  to  allow  in  company  or  association 
with  others.  This  fact  was  perfectly  patent  from  the  appearance  of 
the  patients.  In  conclusion  of  this  subject  we  could  not  find  that 
mechanical  restraints,  locks,  grates  or  bars,  occupy  any  more  promi- 
nent position  in  the  ordering  or  direction  of  the  Vermont  Asylum 
than  in  the  Asylum  at  Northampton.  No  evidence  has  been  discern- 
able  to  us  that  the  active  medical  treatment  of  the  patient  was  less 
or  different  from  that  which  the  best  skill  would  suggest ;  and  we 
certainly  would  not  feel  justified  in  indulging  in  speculative  conjec- 
tures in  the  entire  absence  of  proof  and  against  the  presence  of 
probabilities. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  i875-'76.  201 

''  The  number  and  apparent  standing  of  the  corps  of  medical  at- 
tendants we  found  to  be  equal  to  that  at  Northampton,  and  the  num- 
ber of  subordinate  attendants  a  few  more  than  at  the  last  named 
hospital,  and  the  number  of  inmates  at  the  two  institutions  the  same. 

"Our  statement  thus  far  has  been  confined  to  what  we  conceived 
to  be  such  facts  and  conclusions  of  fact  as  are  true  and  material  and 
bearing  upon  what  might  be  expected  for  results 

"We  now  come  to  the  results  as  proved  by  the  statistics  of  the 
Vermont  Asylum  in  comparison  with  those  of  other  states.  We  make 
comparisons  for  the  last  ten  years  and  find  the  percentage  of  recov- 
eries for  that  time  at  the  Vermont  iVsylum  to  be  32.04;  and  of  deaths, 
7.02.  The  mean  average  of  percentage  of  recoveries  and  deaths  for 
the  rest  of  New  England  during  the  same  time,  we  find  to  be  as 
follows  : 

"  Percentage  of  recoveries,  32.14  ;  of  deaths,  10.25.  These. com- 
parisons have  been  made  with  institutions  similar  in  character  with 
that  at  Brattleboro,  and  we  believe  them  a  fair  test,  which,  if  true, 
leaves  the  conclusion  inevitable  that  the  treatment  of  the  insane  at 
the  Vermont  Asylum  is  at  least  reasonably  successful. 

"We  could  hardly  do  full  justice  to  the  question  involved  with- 
out briefly  stating  our  opinion  in  regard  to  the  tendency  of  the  Insti- 
tution at  Brattleboro,  in  the  direction  of  improvement  and  reform. 
It  is  quite  clear  that  it  has  not  reached  a  state  of  perfection,  but 
quite  as  evident  that  the  last  few  years  have  witnessed  a  substantial 
change  in  many  respects,  all  of  which  have  materially  bettered  its 
condition,  and  at  the  present  time  still  further  modifications  and 
changes  in  the  direction  of  reform  are  in  contemplation.  We  are 
fully  satisfied  that  the  Institution  is  under  the  management  of  hu- 
mane, competent  and  conscientious  officials,  whose  single  purpose  is 
to  do  their  duty  fully  and  well. 

"At  this  point  we  may  be  pardoned  for  venturing  an  opinion 
upon  the  question  of  propriety  of  establishing  a  State  asylum.  If  one 
were  to  be  erected,  its  capacity  should  undoubtedly  be  equal  to  the 
accommodation  of  three  hundred  patients.  According  to  the  best 
authorities  the  expense  for  buildings,  apparatus  and  appliances,  at 
the  lowest  estimate,  would  be  at  the  rate  of  one  thousand  dollars  for 
each  patient  to  be  accommodated,  making  the  cost,  if  authority  and 
the  experience  of  other  States  are  at  all  reliable,  three  hundred  thous- 
and dollars. 

"The  cost  of  the  asylums  in  Massachusetts,  with  one  or  two  ex- 
ceptions, have  been  largely  in  excess  of  the  above  estimate. 


202  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMON'I^  ASYLUM. 

"  In  view  of  these  facts,  we  do  not  feel  self-sacrificing  enough  to 
take  upon  ourselves  the  burden  of  attempting  to  secure  the  necessary 
appropriation  for  that  purpose. 

"We  have  been  requested  by  the  Superintendent  and  Trustees  of 
the  Asylum  to  recommend  a  bill  increasing  the  pay  for  keeping  the 
State  insane  to  three  dollars  and  fifty  cents  per  week,  and  the  aid  to 
towns  to  one  dollar  per  week. 

"  We  are  of  the  opinion  that  the  State  should  pay  the  Asylum  the 
actual  cost  of  keeping  and  supporting  its  insane,  and  no  more — and 
are  also  of  the  opinion  that  the  cost,  upon  an  average,  is  three  dol- 
lars and  thirty-three  cents  per  week,  for  each  patient — we  therefore 
recommend  the  passage  of  the  accompanying  bill  herewith  submitted, 

HENRY  C.  BELDEN,       ^  Committee 
C.  W.  BRIGHAM,  V      of  the 

E.  P.  GEORGE,  J      Senate. 

R.  C.   ABELL,  ^ 

RALPH  SHERWOOD,  Committee 

E.  O.   PORTER,  ;.    on  part  of 

CHARLES  W.   CLARK,         the  House. 
P.  R.  FOLLANSBY, 

The  result  of  the  foregoing  Report  and  Review  in  the  way  of 
Legislative  action  was  the  passage  of  the  following  Joint  Resolution 
in  relation  to  the  insane  of  the  State  and  the  statutes  in  relation  to 
their  confinement  and  treatment. 
"Resolved  by  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representatives: 

"That  the  governor  be  directed  to  appoint  three  commissioners, 
whose  duty  it  shall  be  to  inquire  into  the  statutes  now  in  force,  in 
relation  to  the  confinement  and  treatment  of  the  insane  of  our  State, 
and  see  what  changes  are  necessary,  if  any,  in  said  laws;  also,  to 
inquire  into  the  treatment  of  our  insane,  and  determine  wheit,  if  any, 
legislation  is  necessary,  and  transmit  their  report  to  the  next  session 
of  the  Legislature." 

This  was  approved  Nov.  28,  1876. 


RECORD  OF   i877-'78. 


ON  the  13th  of  February,  1877,  the  Institution  suffered  the  loss 
by  fire  of  the  boiler  house,  stable,  carriage  house,  straw 
house  and  ice  house,  with  most  of  their  contents,  also  of  the 
contents  of  the  cellars.      Estimated  loss  $25,000,  insured  for  $8,000. 

The  following  account  in  detail  is  taken  from  the  Vermont  Phoenix 
of  the  1 6th  of  the  same  month: 

"  At  twenty  minutes  past  seven  on  Tuesday  morning,  in  the 
midst  of  one  of  the  worst  gales  of  this  season,  the  village  was 
aroused  by  the  sound  of  the  xA.sylum  fire-whistle,  and  its  warning 
note  had  hardiy  reached  the  ears  of  the  people  before  a  dense  vol- 
ume of  blinding  smoke  came  pouring  down  Main  street,  giving  rise 
to  the  gravest  apprehensions.  A  general  alarm  was  immediately 
given,  followed  by  a  rush  of  neariy  every  able-bodied  citizen' for  the 
scene  of  the  fire.  To  those  who  were  first  on  the  ground  the  situa- 
tion was  mdeed  an  alarming  one.  The  streets  were  black  with 
smoke,  and  so  dense  and  threatening  was  the  cloud  that  rolled  over 
and  enveloped  the  buildings,  that  even  from  the  top  of  the  hill  near 
the  common  they  were  entirely  invisible.  The  fire  proved  to  have 
originated  in  the  stable  which  stood  in  the  rear  of  the  west  wing  of 
the  Institution,  and  by  the  time  the  first  outside  help  arrived,  both 
the  stable  and  the  carriage  house,  straw  barn  and  wagon  shed  which 
adjoined  it  on  the  side  next  the  street,  were  a  mass  of  thick  smoke 
and  flame,  which  roared  and  leaped  from  the  doors,  windows  and 
roof,  and  in  the  terrible  northwest  gale  drove  straight  toward  the 
main  building  in  a  way  which  seemed  to  render  its  immediate 
destruction  inevitable.  Adjoining  the  stable  on  the  other  side, 
stood  the  new  boiler  house,  and  the  upper  part' of  this  building  was 
also  soon  wrapped  in  raging  flames  which  threatened  every  moment 
to  spread  to  the  laundry  building  and  thence  to  the  north  wing,  and 
so  on  through  the  whole  Institution.  Altogether  the  prospect,  if 
not  a  hopeless  one,  was  such  as  called  for  instant  and  decisive 
action,  and  made  the  stoutest  heart  grow  faint  at  the  thought  of  the 
possible  consequences.      The  citizens  as  they  arrived  went  promptly 


204  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

to  work,  and  the  fire  department  was  soon  on  hand.  Phoenix  Com- 
pany No.  6  was  the  first  to  reach  the  spot,  but  -not  having  correctly- 
understood  the  order  how  and  where  to  reach  the  water,  Fountain 
No.  4  took  a  position  at  a  reservoir  on  the  grounds  just  west  of  the 
main  entrance,  and  got  the  first  stream  of  water  on  the  fire,  it  being 
directed  toward  subduing  the  flames  at  the  corner  next  the  west 
wing  and  keeping  them  from  spreading  to  the  main  building  at  that 
point.  The  Phoenix  was  meantime  placed  in  the  street,  and  took 
water  froni  Hydrppath  No.  3,  which  was  stationed  at  the  resorvoir 
on  Oak  street.  This  stream  was  used  to  check  the  fire  in  the  boiler 
house  and  to  keep  it  from  spreading  in  that  direction.  The  rest  of 
the  department  was  actively  employed,  and  Estey's  steamer  was  sent 
for  and  did  effective  service  in  playing  from  the  reservoir  on  the 
common.  The  most  exposed  point,  and  the  one  where  the  most 
imminent  danger  existed  was  at  the  north  end  of  the  west  wing, 
where  the  heat  from  the  burning  barn  and  shed  was  intense  and 
overpowering.  By  the  heroic  efforts  of  the  firemen,  however,  nobly 
seconded  as  they  were  by  those  of  a  determined  corps  of  citizens, 
the  fire  was  kept  from  getting  a  lodgment  in  the  main  building  until 
the  blazing  walls  and  roof  fell  in  or  were  pulled  down.  Equally 
effective  work  was  also  done  on  the  roof  of  the  boiler  house,  with 
the  fortunate  result  that  in  something  like  an  hour  from  the  time 
when  it  started  the  fire  was  under  control  and  the  worst  danger 
was  over,  althoug^h  watchful  and  untiring  work  was  necessary  for 
some  time  longer. 

"  The  behavior  of  everybody  on  this  occasion,  in  doors  and  out — 
firemen,  citizens,  and  employes  of  the  Institution — was  of  the  most 
admirable  character.  There  was  nothing  like  a  panic,  and  no  exhi- 
bition of  undue  excitement.  There  is  no  doubt  that  the  fire  caught 
from  the  chimney  or  stove  in  the  stable,  the  common  theory  being 
that  the  chimney  took  fire  and  burned  out  in  the  fierce  wind.  The 
flames  were  first  discovered  by  the  engineer,  or  his  wife,  and  he 
at  once  opened  the  fire-whistle  and  gave  the  alarm.  It  unfortu- 
nately happened  that  Dr.  Draper,  the  superintendent,  had  been  sub- 
poenaed to  attend  the  trial  of  Hayden,  the  Derby  Line  murderer,  as 
a  witness,  and  for  this  reason  had  been  compelled  to  leave  for  Iras- 
burgh  on  the  previous  day.  In  his  absence  Dr.  Clark,  first  assistant 
physician,  proved  himself  equal  to  the  emergency  by  his  prompt  and 
cool-headed  action.  His  first  thought  was  for  the  patients  in  the 
most  exposed  part  of  the  west  wing,  and  after  seeing  them  removed 
to  a  place  of  comparative  safety,  he  lent  his.  personal  efforts  to  fight- 
ing the  fire  in  a  way  which  won  him  universal  praise.     The  ladies 


RECORD    OF   THE   YEARS    iSyy-'yS.  205 

of  the  house  manifested  a  most  praiseworthy  calmness,  ready 
for  whatever  might  come.  The  first  care  of  the  out-door  employes 
was  for  the  horses  in  the  stable,  and  these  were  all  safely  removed. 
The  patients  in  the  various  wards,  strange  to  say,  manifested  but 
little  unusual  excitement,  so  that  in  no  respect  was  there  any  such 
scene  of  confusion  as  one  might  imagine  would  attend  a  fire  in  a 
place  like  this.  Pails  of  hot  coffee  were  freely  distributed  from  the 
kitchen  to  the  firemen  and  others. 

"The  newly  organized  fire  police  proved  their  efficiency  by 
promptly  taking  possession  of  the  laundry  wing,  and  in  a  rapid  but 
orderly  manner  clearing  it  of  all  movable  articles.  These  men  were 
afterward  distributed  through  the  main  building  to  keep  out  the 
sparks  and  cinders  which  the  wind  continually  drove  in  under 
the  window  sashes,  making  a  source  of  constant  danger. 

"  The  total  loss  involved  cannot  as  yet  be  stated  with  precision. 
The  stable,  carriage  house,  etc.,  which  Vas  of  brick,  and  with  the 
boiler  house  formed  a  continuous  line  of  buildings  from  the  street  to 
the  laundry  wing,  is  a  total  loss,  although  portions  of  the  walls 
are  standing.  The  lower  part  of  the  boiler  house  is  in  good  con- 
dition and  the  boilers  and  their  connections  were  happily  found  to 
be  uninjured,  so  that  early  in  the  afternoon  the  fires  were  rekindled 
and  the  whole  Institution  was  warmed  and  made  as  comfortable 
as  ever.  The  store  house,  meat  house,  cellars,  etc.,  contained 
upward  of  two  tons  of  butter,  two  thousand  bushels  of  potatoes, 
a  large  quantity  of  other  vegetables,  and  stores  of  various  kinds,  all 
of  which  is  a  total  loss.  The  wheeled  carriages,  several  of  which 
were  very  valuable,  were  burned,  with  two  exceptions.  Only  one  of 
the  sleighs  was  saved. 

"  In  many  respects  it  seems  little  less  than  miraculous  that 
the  loss  was  confined  within  such  bounds  as  it  was.  The  wind 
which  prevailed  in  the  streets  of  the  town  at  the  time  of  the  fire  was 
as  nothing  compared  with  its  fury  as  it  swept  up  from  the  river 
and  interval  and  across  the  corner  where  the  flames  raged  fiercest, 
making  it  at  times  impossible  for  one  to  keep  his  feet;  or  make  head- 
way against  it.  That  the  Institution  was  saved  must  be  attributed 
to  the  fact  that  the  buildings  are  so  nearly  fire  proof.  Had  even  the 
cornice  of  the  west  wing  been  of  wood,  its  rescue  would  have  been 
impossible.  It  was  a  notable  fact  that  every  individual  present 
worked,  and  evidently  felt  as  though  he  had  a  personal  interest  in 
saving  the  property.     The  officers  of  the  Asylum  fully  realize  this. 


2o6  ANNALS    OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

and  they  have  asked  us  to  express  to  the  fire  department  and  citi- 
zens, their  deep  sense  of  appreciation  of  their  laborious  services,  and 
of  the  fact  that  to  them  alone  it  is  due  that  the  Institution  still  stands 
practically  unharmed." 

At  a  meeting  of  the  Trustees,  on  the  15th  of  March  following,  it 
was  decided  to  locate  the  stable  and  carriage  house  farther  from  the 
main  buildings,  and  upon  the  west  side  of  the  road,  using  for  this 
purpose  the  large  wood-house  built  in  1866,  and  removed  to  its 
present  site  in  1870,  and  to  rebuild  the  burned  line  of  buildings 
[190  feet  X  40],  using  the  seventy-five  feet  adjoining  the  laundry 
building  for  boiler  room  below,  engineer's  work  shop  on  first  story, 
with  farmer's  lodgings  above,  as  before,  the  central  section  [40  feet] 
for  stores,  both  stories,  and  the  seventy-five  feet  next  the  road,  the 
height  of  both  stories  in  one,  for  the  purposes  of  a  gymnasium;  the 
latter  the  suggestion  of  Mr.  Bradley. 

June  5th  the  full  Board w^onvened  for  the  discussion  of  the  plans 
for  the  new  buildings,  and  determined  to  have  the  brick  work  done 
by  day's  work  instead  of  by  contract,  under  the  charge  of  a  foreman, 
and  general  oversight  of  the  architect,  the  whole  being  under  the 
supervision  of  Dr.  Rockwell,  as  the  agent  of  the  Board. 

The  annual  election  of  officers  took  place  at  th^  x\ugust  meeting, 
no  changes  being  made. 

OFFICERS  OF  THE   BOARD. 

Frederick  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
J.  M.  Tyler,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,   Superintendent  and   Physician. 

Asa  Gilkey,  Farmer. 

,  Matron. 

J.  M.  Clark,  ) 

,,    „r    ..        1  ,•        r  Assistant  Physicians. 

At  the  September  meeting  it  was  decided  to  introduce  steam 
cooking  apparatus,  which  was  begun  without  delay. 

In  October  the  small  cottage  situated  near  the  Cold  spring. 
together  with  a  half  acre  of  land  more  or  less,  was  purchased  of 
Rinaldo  N.  Hescock  for  the  sum  of  $775. 

■  The  cost  of  reconstructing  the  wood -house  into  a  stable  and 
carriage  house,  and  rebuildins^  the  burned  line  of  buildings  this  year 
was  $23,449.29. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  iSyy-'yS.  207 

At  the  November  meeting  this  year  the  Trustees  considered  the 
matter  of  the  revision  of  the  By-Laws,  which  had  been  little  changed 
since  their  adoption  in  1845,  ^^^^  directed  the  secretary  to  revise 
those  articles  defining  the  duties  of  the  resident  officers,  and  submit 
the  same  to  the  Board  for  their  consideration,  at  the  next  meeting. 

The  revision  being  submitted  as  ordered,  was  carefully  consid- 
ered and  adopted,  with  other  articles  relating  to  the  duties  of  the 
officers  of  .t]ie  Board,  by  the  Trustees  at  their  meeting  in  January 
following. 

BY-LAWS. 

Article  L 
Sfxtion  1.  There  shall  be  a  meeting  of  the  Trustees  at  the 
Asylum  on  the  second  Tuesday  of  every  month,  at  two  o'clock,  p.  m., 
to  examine  into  the  state  of  the  Institution,  the  condition  and  situa- 
tion of  the  patients,  the  accounts  of  the  officers,  and  to  transact  any 
and  all  other  business  deemed  expedient  when  met. 

Article  IL 
Sec.   I.     No  vote  shall  be  passed  at  any  meeting  unless  there  be 
three  Trustees  voting  in  the  affirmative  ;    provided,  at  a  subsequent 
monthly  meeting  to  which  any  matter  may  be  adjourned,  the  same 
may  be  passed  by  a  majority  of  those  present. 

Article  IIL 
Sec.  I.  At  the  monthly  meeting  in  August,  which  shall  be  the 
annual  meeting,  the  following  officers  shall  be  chosen  and  appointed, 
to  wit  :  A  chairman,  treasurer,  secretary,  and  auditor  of  accounts  ; 
a  superintendent  and  physician,  two  assistant  physicians,  a  matron, 
and  a  farmer,  who  shall  be  resident  officers.  The  assistant  physi- 
cians, matron  and  farmer,  shall  be  nominated  annually  by  the  Super- 
intendent, and  appointed  by  the  Trustees.  Provided,  however,  in 
case  of  vacancy,  or  in  case  said  officers  shall  not  be  chosen  at  the 
annual  meeting,  such  vacancy  may  be  filled,  or  such  officers  chosen 
at  any  subsequent  monthly  meeting,  and  the  salaries  of  all  officers 
shall  be  from  time  to  time  fixed  by  the  Trustees. 

Article  IV. 
Sec.   I.     The  chairman  may  at  any  time,  and  shall  on  the  request 
of  either  Trustee  or  the  Superintendent,  call  special  meetings,  giving 
each  Trustee  personal  notice,  or  notice  by  secretary,  and  shall  pre- 
side at  the  meetings  of  the  board. 


2o8  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

Article  V. 

Sec.  I.  The  treasurer  shall  have  charge  of  all  deeds,  and  other 
securities  and  obligations  belonging  to  the  Asylum,  and  shall  receive 
and  hold  all  bequests,  or  trust  funds  of  the  Asylum  for  specific  pur- 
poses, and  disburse  the  same  under  the  direction  of  the  Trustees, 
and  in  accordance  with  their  specified  objects. 

Sec.  2.  He  shall  also  hold  all  policies  of  insurance,  effected  by 
Trustees  for  the  preservation  of  the  property,  and  shall  be  the  agent 
of  the  board  in  all  matters  pertaining  to  said  trusts  and  insurance. 

Sec.  3.  He  shall  likewise  direct  the  deposits,  and  oversee  the 
disbursements  of  the  current  funds  collected  by  the  Superintendent, 
and  shall  make  report  annually  to  the  board  of  the  condition  of  the  se- 
curities and  funds  in  his  charge,  and  of  the  amount  of  insurance  car- 
ried, together  with  any  suggestions  relative  to  the  same  that  may 
seem  to  him  advisable  or  necessary. 

Article  VL 
Sec.  I.  The  secretary  shall  have  charge  of  the  records  of  the 
Trustees ;  shall  attend  the  meetings  of  the  board  and  record  their 
proceedings  therein.  He  shall  also  have  charge  of  all  papers  of  a 
historical  character,  and  record,  in  addition  to  the  proceedings  of 
the  board,  any  other  papers  or  statements  that  the  Trustees  may  or- 
der to  be  so  recorded.  He  will  also,  under  direction  of  the  chairman 
of  the  board  notify  the  members  of  the  meetings  to  be  held. 

Article  VH. 
Sec.  I.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  auditor  in  the  month  of  July, 
annually,  to  audit  all  the  accounts  of  the  officers  of  the  Institution  ; 
take  an  inventory  of  all  the  property  of  the  corporation,  and  take  an 
account  of  all  claims  in  favor  of  and  against  the  Institution,  so  as  to 
show  its  true  standing  on  the  first  day  of  August,  annually.  He 
shall  also  audit  all  bills  contracted  for  building  or  other  purposes 
outside  of  the  current  expenditures,  as  they  fall  due,  and  are  referred 
to  him  by  the  superintendent  or  other  agent  of  the  board. 

Article  VIII. 

Sec.  I.  The  superintendent,  under  the  direction  of  the  Trustees, 
.shall  have  the  general  oversight  and  superintendence  of  the  Asylum 
in  all  its  departments,  and  all  the  associate  resident  officers  shall  be 
subordinate  to  his  authority. 

Sec.  2.  In  the  discharge  of  his  duties  his  first  care  shall  be  for 
the  welfare  of  the  patients  committed  to  the  charge  of  the  Institu- 
tion, and  this  care  must  be  so  far  personal  that  he  shall  be  at  all 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  i877-'78.  209 

times  conversant  with  the  actual  condition  of  each  individual  case, 
and  he  must  be  responsible  for  the  classification  of  the  inmates,  and 
the  general  course  of  treatment  pursued. 

Sec.  3.  He  will  also  be  responsible  for  the  current  financial 
management  of  the  Asylum,  under  the  direction  of  the  Trustees  ; 
determining  the  number  of  employes  in  the  various  departments,  es- 
tablishing for  them  regulations,  and  so  governing  the  expenditures 
of  the  several  departments  that  a  wise  economy  may  be  practiced, 
and  as  much  as  possible  be  accomplished  with  the  resources  of  the 
Institution  at  command. 

Sec.  4.  He  shall  make  up  the  accounts  of  the  patients  as  they 
accrue,  collect  the  same  regularly,  and  pay  all  bills  as  they  fall  due, ' 
keeping  a  bank  account  in  the  name  of  the  Institution,  and  subject 
to  the  direction  and  oversight  of  the  treasurer,  where  all  his  deposits 
shall  be  made  ;  and  shall  carefully  take  and  preserve  vouchers  for  all 
monetary  transactions,  for  the  inspection  of  the  auditor,  and  shall 
refer  all  bills,  except  for  current  expenditures,  to  the  auditor  before 
settlement  of  them. 

Sec.  5.  He  shall  endeavor  in  every  way  to  promote  the  effi- 
ciency of  the  staff  of  resident  officers  and  the  corps  of  employes,  and 
hold  each  in  his  place  to  faithfulness  in  the  performance  of  his  du- 
ties ;  and  on  his  part  carry  out  the  designs  of  the  Institution,  and  the 
views  and  instructions  of  the  Trustees,  upon  its  general  management 
and  policy. 

Sec.  6.  All  assistants  and  employes  will  be  directly  responsible 
to  the  superintendent,  and  subject  to  his  regulations. 

Sec.  7.  Records  of  all  cases  admitted  and  treated,  and  of  all  the 
transactions  of  the  Asylum,  shall  be  kept,  or  caused  to  be  kept,  by 
the  superintendent,  and  shall  be  at  all  times  subject  to  the  inspection 
of  the  Trustees. 

Sec.  8.  He  shall  give  his  whole  time  to  the  interests  of  the  es- 
tablishment, engaging  in  no  other  business  whereby  the  welfare  of 
the  Asylum  shall  be  compromised,  and  in  case  of  his  temporary  ab- 
sence shall  require  both  his  medical  assistants  to  be  on  duty,  unless 
by  special  leave  of  the  Trustees,  but  in  no  case  shall  the  Asylum  be 
left  without  a  medical  officer. 

Sec.  9.  He  shall  lay  before  the  Trustees  at  each  monthly  meet- 
ing a  statement  of  the  number  of  patients  received,  discharged,  or 
deceased  during  the  month  previous  ;  stating  the  name  and  residence 
of  such  patients,  the  time  of  their  admission  and  the  security  taken 
therefor,  the  time  of  their  discharge  or  decease,  and  if  discharged 
whether  cured  or  improved  or  not  ;  together  with  an  account  of  all 


2IO  ANNALS   OF   THE   VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

monej^s  received  and  paid  out,  from  and  •  to  whom,  and  for  what, 
which  account  shall  be  balanced  so  as  to  show  the  exact  state  of  the 
finances  each  month,  and  on  the  first  of  August  annually,  these 
monthly  statements  shall  be  embodied  in  an  annual  report  to  the 
Trustees,  which  shall  thus  embrace  the  current  results  of  each  year's 
operations. 

Article  IX. 

Sec.  I.  The  duties  of  the  assistant  physicians  shall  be  to  carry 
out  in  detail  the  medical  treatment  of  the  inmates,  as  well  as  the 
plans  for  their  exercise  and  recreation,  and  the  system  of  amusements 
that  may  from  time  to  time  be  adopted.  They  shall  have  charge  of 
the  dispensary,  and  of  all  medicines,  instruments  and  apparatus  be- 
longing to  the  medical  department  of  the  Asylum,  and  keep  the  same 
in  good  order  at  all  times. 

Sec.  2.  For  the  more  efficient  discharge  of  their  duties,  their 
work  and  responsibilities  shall  be  divided;  one  of  them  (in  the  dis- 
cretion of  the  superintendent)  taking  charge  of  the  male,  and  the 
other  of  the  female  wards.  Besides  attending  to  their  professional 
duties  as  above  defined,  they  shall  be  required  to  support  the  disci- 
pline of  the  corps  of  employes,  and  to  render  to  the  superintendent 
such  aid  in  the  administrative  departments  as  naturally  devolves 
upon  them  under  the  regulations  governing  the  attendants  and  em- 
ployes. 

Sec.  3.  Each  shall  keep  the  records  in  the  case  books  of  his  de- 
partment, in  as  full  a  manner  as  may  be  required  by  the  superintend- 
ent, and  keep  any  other  records  that  may  be  necessary  in  the 
prosecution  of  extended  observations,  in  any  line  of  professional 
inquiry  that  may  be  instituted,  requiring  the  co-operation  of  the 
medical  officers.  Both  will  be  expected  at  all  times  and  in  every 
way  practicable,  to  labor  for  the  interests  of  the  Institution,  and  af- 
ford to  the  friends  of  patients,  and  to  visitors,  all  proper  and  requi- 
site information  relative  to  the  inmates,  and  the  Institution. 

Sec.  4.  They  will  daily,  and  as  much  oftener  as  may  be  neces- 
sary, report  to  the  superintendent  upon  the  cases  under  treatment, 
relative  to  the  progress  made,  and  concerning  any  occurrence  of  an 
unusual  or  unexpected  character,  and  consult  with  him  in  reference 
to  any  changes  in  classification  or  course  of  treatment,  that  may  be 
indicated.  Any  instances  of  ill  treatment  of  patients,  or  evidences 
of  unsuitableness  for  position  on  the  part  of  attendants  or  others  em- 
ployed, they  will  also  report,  and  will  uniformly  endeavor  to  instruct 
them  in  the  discharge  of  their  duties,  so  that  humane  and  kindly 
treatment  may  be  secured  to  the  inmates. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   iSyy-'yS.  211 

Sec.  5.  Both  shall  not  be  absent  from  the  Asylum  at  the  same 
time  unless  by  permission  of  the  superintendent.  In  the  absence  of 
the  superintendent,  the  senior  assistant  physician  shall  act  in  his 
place,  unless  by  other  special  provision  of  the  Trustees.  Their  rou- 
tine of  daily  duty  shall  be  so  far  defined  by  the  superintendent  as 
to  insure  a  frequent  and  vigilant  oversight  of  the  patients  and  their 
attendants. 

Article  X. 

Sec.  I.  The  matron  shall  look  carefully  to  the  wants  of  the  fe- 
male patients  in  reference  to  their  individual  needs,  visit  their  wards 
daily,  and  bestow  special  attention  upon  the  sick  and  feeble  gener- 
ally, (visiting  the  sick  in  the  male  wards,  if  so  desired  by  the  super- 
intendent). She  shall  see  that  suitable  bedding  is  everywhere 
provided,  and  that  the  dining  rooms  and  clothing  rooms  of  the  wards 
are  properly  cared  for,  and  that  the  wearing  apparel  of  the  female 
patients  especially,  is  duly  registered  and  preserved,  and  judiciously 
worn;  that  the  dietary  prescriptions  of  the  medical  officers  are  prop- 
erly prepared  and  served;  that  those  having  care  of  the  sick  perform 
their  duties  in  a  kindly  manner,  and  give  such  instructions  to  the 
attendants  in  reference  to  the  general  care  of  the  wards  as  may  be 
necessary  to  secure  the  proper  standard  of  cleanliness  and  good 
order. 

Sec.  2.  She  shall  ascertain  the  wants  in  the  way  of  supplies  for 
the  sewing  departments  and  female  wards,  and  supervise  the  draw- 
ing, marking  and  distributing  of  the  same,  under  the  regulations  of 
the  superintendent. 

Sec.  3.  She  shall  likewise  oversee  and  direct  the  work  in  all  the 
domestic  departments,  the  cooking,  washing,  ironing  and  sewing, 
and  see  that  all  are  properly  done,  and  that  proper  order  and  neat- 
ness in  these  departments  prevail. 

Sec.  4.  She  shall  exercise  forethought  in  the  making  up  of 
clothing  and  bedding,  and  see  that  prudence  is  observed  in  the  use 
materials,  and  that  as  much  as  possible  be  accomplished  in  each  de- 
partment. 

Sec.  5.  In  every  way  possible  she  will  endeavor  to  promote  the 
efficiency  of  the  emyloyes,  and  add  to  the  personal  comforts  of  the 
inmates,  and  will  report  to  the. superintendent  any  evidences  of  un- 
faithfulness to  duty,  or  unkindness  to  patients,  that  may  come  to  her 
knowledge.  She  will  be  expected  to  render  constant  service  to  the 
Institution,  except  when  allowed  leave  of  absence  by  the  superin- 
tendent. 


212  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

Article  XL 

Sec.  I.  The  farmer,  under  the  superintendent's  direction,  shall 
take  charge  of  the  operations  of  the  farm  in  detail,  and  have  imme- 
diate direction  of  the  persons  employed  for  the  farm  service,  and 
shall  be  responsible  for  the  timely  and  seasonable  management  of 
the  crops,  the  proper  care  of  the  dairy  and  other  stock,  and  the 
teams  employed  in  the  farm  work,  together  with  the  team  wagons, 
sleds,  and  farming  utensils  of  every  description. 

Sec.  2.  He  shall  be  responsible  for  the  good  order  of  the  barns, 
farm  yards,  and  their  appendages  ;  the  good  condition  of  the  fences; 
the  utilization  of  the  sewerage  and  fertilizing  resources  of  the  Insti- 
tution; the  preparation  and  housing  of  the  supply  of  fuel  and  ice, 
and  the  slaughtering  of  the  animals  which  are  the  products  of  home 
fattening. 

Sec.  3.  He  shall  also  attend  to  the  performance  of  any  other 
work  or  improvement  upon  the  farm,  garden,  or  Asylum  premises, 
that  may  be  required  of  him. 

Sec.  4.  He  shall  exercise  constant  care  and  watchfulness  over 
the  patients  placed  under  his  charge  for  employment,  and  over  those 
having  the  immediate  care  of  them  ;  see  that  work  suitable  for  each 
is  provided  ;  that  due  discretion  is  exercised  in  the  use  of  tools  and 
implements  for  labor,  and  above  all  that  they  are  not  imposed  upon 
in  any  way,  but  are  treated  with  the  consideration  and  respect  prop- 
erly due  persons  in  their  condition  of  mind,  and  shall  carry  out  in 
every  way  possible  the  plans  of  the  superintendent  for  their  welfare 
and  treatment. 

Sec  5.  All  wants  in  his  department  involving  expenditure  shall 
be  referred  to  the  superintendent ;  and  no  purchases  or  sales  of 
stock  or  produce  be  made,  except  by  his  direction.  He  will  give  his 
time  and  attention  exclusively  to  his  charge,  and  not  absent  himself 
from  duty  without  the  knowledge  and  permission  of  the  superin- 
tendent. 

Article  XH. 

Sec.  I.  The  Trustees  shall  from  time  to  time  fix  the  price  of 
board  of  patients,  and  no  patient  shall  at  any  time  be  admitted  for  a 
less  price  than  that  prefixed  by  the  Trustees,  and  upon  the  admission 
of  patients  to  the  Asylum  good  security  shall  in  all  cases  be  required. 

Article   XI H. 

Sec.  I.  No  moneys  shall  be  expended,  or  debts  contracted,  (ex- 
cept for  the  ordinary  expenses  of  the  establishment,)  unless  directed 
by  the  Trustees. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  iSyy-'yS.  21^ 

The  subject  which  earhest  engrossed  the  attention  of  the  Trus- 
tees in  1878  was  the  matter  of  disposal  of  the  sewage  which  hith- 
erto had  been  deposited  in  an  artificial  basin  or  settHng  bed  at 
the  foot  of  the  bank  on  the  meadow  level,  from  which  it  was  annu- 
ally removed,  and  fresh  material  for  compost  thrown  in.  After 
much  discussion  it  was  decided  at  the  July  meeting  to  abandon  the 
settling  bed,  and  construct  a  conduit  from  the  bank  about  thirty-five 
rods  to  a  stream  in  the  meadow,  by  which  it  would  be  conductied 
thence  to  the  West  River. 

At  this  meeting  it  was  also  determined  to  erect  a  brick  building 
in  rear  of  the  gymnasium  for  a  carpenter's  shop  in  the  lower  story, 
and  a  painter's  shop  above,  and  connect  with  the  same  a  wing, 
the  lower  story  and  cellar  to  form  an  ice  house,  and  the  upper  story 
a  lumber  room. 

The  following  officers  were  elected  at  the  annual  meeting,  1878: 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Frederick  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
J.  M.  Tyler,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 
Asa  Gilkey,  Farmer. 
Mary  Draper,  Matron. 
T.  M.  Clark, 


„     „.     ^,    ,        r  Assistant  Phvsicians 
O.    \\ .    Phelps, 

The  financial  exhibit  of  this  biennial  period  shows 

income  received,  $187,261.96 

Expenditures,  »  187,036.16 


Balance  on  hand,  $225.80 

In    their    report    of   1876,    the    Trustees    urged   an    increase    in 

the  rate  allowed  for  the  care  of  the  insane  poor,  for  the  reason  that 

the   Institution  was  becoming  more  and  more  devoted  each   year 

to  this  class,  and  also  because  the  rate  now  allowed  was  much  below 

that  for  the  like  class  in  the  neighboring  States. 

This   is   urged   in   their  Report  of    1878  still   more   forcibly,  as 

follows: 

"The  Trustees  desire  in  this  Report  to  state  explicity  and  in 

detail,  the  difficulties  under  which  the  Institution  is  at  present  labor- 


514  ANNALS    OF   THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

ing,  and  what  they  conceive  to  be  their  duty  in  respect  to  the 
relations  existing  between  the  Asylum  and  the  State.  They  would 
first  remark  that  by  virtue  of  their  position,  as  the  Trustees  of 
a  property  designed  for  a  specific  and  benevolent  object,  they 
are  charged  with  a  two-fold  duty,  to  wit:  the  preservation  of  the 
property  intact,  -and  the  maintenance  of  the  Institution  in  a  condi- 
tion suited  to  the. successful  carrying  out  of  its  chartered  objects. 

'^It  will  be  remembered  that  the  Asylum  had  its  origin  in  a 
private  bequest  of  $10,000,  in  1834,  and  that  it  was  upon  this  alone 
that  the  establishment  was  put  in  operation.  That  subsequently  the 
State  co-operated  with  the  Trustees  in  increasing  the  capacity  of  the 
Asylum,  by  .2:ranting  small  appropriations  amounting  in  the  aggre- 
gate to  $23,000  between  the  years  1835  ^^^  1843,  since  which  time 
the  Asylum  has  received  no  aid  whatever  from  any  source,  but 
has  been  dependent  wholly  for  its  maintenance  and  subsequent 
development  upon  the  income  derived  from  the  care  of  its  inmates 
annually.  A  preference  in  the  matter  of  admissions  to  the  Asylum, 
was,  by  the  appropriations  made  by  the  State  for  the  purpose  of 
increasing  the  capacity  of  the  Institution,  conceded  to  applicants 
from  A^ermont,  and  the  result  has  been  a  gradual,  but  steadily 
increasing  percentage  of  inmates  belonging  to  the  State  from  the 
date  of  the  arrangements  thus  entered  into  to  the  present  time.  In 
the  year  1846,  after  the  last  appropriation  had  been  made  and 
expended,  the  average  number  of  the  insane  poor  supported  in 
the  Asylum  was  121.  The  average  number  of  the  same  class  sup- 
ported during  the  past  year  was  293.  Ten  years  ago  the  respective 
numbers  of  insane  poor  and  self-supporting  patients  were  207  of  the 
former  and  306  of  the  latter.  At  the  present  time  there  are  295 
of  the  former  and  164  of  the  latter. 

"The  result  of  this  change  it  will  be  seen  has  very  considerably 
modified  the  resources  of  the  Asylum,  and  materially  limited  the 
income  at  the  disposal  of  the  Trustees,  inasmuch  as  the  rate  paid  by 
the  State  has  always  been  below  the  average  cost  as  shown  by  the 
officers  of  the  Asylum  in  their  review  of  the  report  of  the  State  com- 
missioner for  1876,  with  the  single  exception  of  the  biennial  period 
of  1871-2  as  therein  shown.  The  change  in  the  relative  proportions 
of  public  and  private  patients  has  been  very  marked  in  the  past 
six  years.  During  the  biennial  period  of  187 1-2  there  were  sup- 
ported an  average  of  233  public  and  273  private  patients;  in  1873-4, 
254  public  and  219  priva'te;  in  1875-6,  277  public  and  200  private; 
in  1877-8,  293  public  and  179  private.  In  the  reception  of  patients 
from  Vermont,  we  have  never  discriminated  against,  nor  refused  any 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  iSyy-'yS.  215 

class,  but  have  received  alike  the  poor,  those  self  supporting  and 
those  sent  by  the  courts,  who  have  been  adjudged  irresponsible  for 
their  crimes  by  reason  of  insanity,  as  well  as  those  convicted  persons 
who  have  become  insane  while  serving  the  penalty  of  their  crimes. 

''  In  reference  to  the  latter  class  we  desire  to  say  that  in  our 
judgment  other  provision  should  be  made  for  them.  In  some  States 
separate  institutions  have  been  created  for  them.  This  is  the  case 
in  New  York.  In  Massachusetts  provision  has  been  made  for 
them  in  connection  with  the  new  prison  at  Concord;  such  provision 
is  a  practicable  one  in  any  State. 

"The  statistics  already  given  show  plainly  that  the  Asylum 
has  been  more  and  more  exclusively  devoted  to  the  wants  of  the 
State  each  year,  though  most  decidedly,  as  will  be  seen  to  the 
pecuniary  disadvantage  pf  the  Institution.  The  practical  result  of 
the  lessening  in  this  way  of  the  annual  income  of  the  establishment 
has  been  the  creation  of  an  indebtedness  of  $45,000  incurred  for  the 
improvement  of  the  accommodations  of  the  Institution,  which  still 
remains  unliquidated. 

"These  facts  have  been  clearly  shown  to  the  Legislature  in  1874 
and  in  1876,  and  we  have  respectfully  asked  an  increase  of  rate  per 
capita  from  $3  to  $3.50  per  week,  but  no  increase  has  been  made, 
altho'  the  committee  to  whom  the  question  was  referred  has  each 
year  reported  in  favor  of  additional  remuneration. 

"By  a  reference  to  the  abstract  of  receipts  and  expenditures  for 
the  two  years,  it  will  be  seen  that  the  average  cost  per  capita  has 
been  $3.81  per  week.  There  has  been  no  material  difference  in  the 
item  of  wages  and  medical  supplies  between  the  past  and  the 
previous  biennial  period.  The  cost  of  stores  and  provisions  has 
been  somewhat  less.  In  this  connection  it  may  be  proper  to  state 
that  the  produce  of  the  farm  contributes  very  largely  toward  the 
support  of  the  household,  and  the  crops  have  been  exceptionally 
good  in  the  last  two  years.  It  does  not,  however,  enter  into  the 
estimates  of  cost  in  this  Report,  nor  has  it  ever  been  considered  in 
the  annual  statements  of  receipts  and  expenditures.  The  furniture 
and  clothing  account  has  been  more  than  in  the  preceding  two 
years.  The  fuel  account  appears  for  the  first  time  as  an  item  of 
expense,  the  wood  having  been  previously  cut  upon  the  Asylum 
property;  but  in  future  it  will  be  an  increasing  item,  as  the  con- 
sumption amounts  to  some  fifteen  hundred  cords  per  annum,  which 
will  each  year  have  to  be  more  and  more  largely  purchased,  as  the 
supply  upon  the  farm  is  nearly  exhausted. 


Si6  ANNALS    OF    THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

"  The  expenditures  for  current  repairs  and  renovations  have  been 
for  four  years  past  less  than  their  proper  average,  on  account  of  the 
expenditure  of  moneys  largely  in  buildings  and  permanent  improve- 
ments. The  latter  account  has  been  larger  in  the  past  two  years 
than  usual  in  consequence  of  the  occurrence  of  the  fire  already 
referred  to,  but  an  insurance  of  eight  thousand  dollars  aided  in 
rebuilding.  So  long  as  the  indebtedness  of  the  Asylum  remains 
unliquidated  the  item  of  interest  upon  it  must  become  a  part  of  the 
current  expense,  as  also  that  for  taxes  and  insurance,  which  latter 
we  have  felt  obliged  to  increase  since  tlie  late  casualty.  It  will 
be  seen  by  the  facts  cited,  that  the  Trustees  have  been  some- 
what straightened  financially  and  circumscribed  in  their  plans  for 
improvements,  in  consequence  of  the  relations  of  the  Asylum  to  the 
State,  and  their  scrupulous  adherence  to  the  conditions  relative  to 
admissions,  whereby  the  annual  income  of  the  establishment  has 
been  year  by  year  reduced.  But  they  desire  in  this  connection 
to  state  that  they  do  not  acknowledge  the  right  of  the  Legislature 
alone  to  determine  the  rate  at  which  the  insane  poor  of  the  State 
shall  be  supported  at  the  Asylum.  They  regard  this  as  a  question 
which  they  have  a  voice  in  determining,  and  while  it  has  been  their 
uniform  endeavor  to  make  the  cost  as  low  as  possible,  consistently 
with  the  proper  care  of  this  class,  they  cannot  continue  a  policy  that 
for  the  five  years  past  has  been  detrimental  to  both  the  present  and 
prospective  interests  of  the  Institution  in  their  charge.  They  feel 
that  if  the  Asylum  is  to  be  more  and  more  devoted  to  the  use  of  the 
State,  they  have  a  right  to  demand  an  increased  compensation 
for  the  care  of  those  who  are  supported  by  it.  They  would  call 
attention  to  the  large  amount  expended  in  the  last  five  years  to 
improve  the  Institution  in  its  appointments,  and  to  the  fact  that  the 
amount  allowed  for  the  support  of  the  insane  poor  of  Vermont,  is 
considered  everywhere  else  in  New  England  insufficient  for  the  just 
requirements. of  the  same  class,  in  institutions  exclusively  devoted  to 
their  care  and  cure. 

"We  are  satisfied  with  the  working  organization  of  the  Asylum 
and  believe  the  objects  of  its  founder  are  being  faithfully  regarded 
and  the  interests  of  the  State  honestly  served;  but  feel  that  the 
Legislature  in  the  last  four  years  has  done  injustice  to  the  Asylum, 
and  fallen  short  in  its  provisions  for  a  class  of  persons  who  are 
the  special  objects  of  its  beneficence  by  refusing  an  adequate  com- 
pensation for  their  maintainance  and  care." 

We  have  quoted  thus  largely  from  this  report  for  the  reason  that 
on  no  occasion  before  nor  since,  have  the  Trustees  so  fully  defined 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   iSyy-'yS.  217 

the  relation  of  the  Asyhim  to  the  State,  and  expressed  the  obHga- 
tions  they  feh  under  in  the  discharge  of  their  trust.  They  close 
their  report  in  the  following  words. 

"  We  must  again  respectfully  request  that  the  Legislature  shall 
at  least  make  the  increase  shown  to  be  absolutely  requisite  for  the 
wants  of  the  insane  poor  of  this  State.  We  can  no  longer  continue 
to  care  for  them  at  the  rate  hitherto  allowed." 

The  Legislature  responded  to  this  appeal  by  increasing  the  rate 
from  $3.00  to  $3.50  per  week  by  an  Act  approved  November  26, 
1878. 

The  Report  of  the  Superintendent  shows  one  hundred  and  sixty- 
seven  admitted,  and  one  hundred  and  ninety-seven  discharged,  since 
August  I,  1876;  four  hundred  and  fifty-nine  remaining. 

The  Causes  of  Insanity,  Moral  Agencies  in  the  Treatment  of  the 
Insane,  and  the  Care  and  Classification  of  the  Insane,  were  specially 
discussed  together  with  the  statistics  of  the  cases  under  care,  and 
the  following  detail  of  the  work  of  the  past  two  years,  is  stated 
and  here  quoted,  as  showing  more  explicitly  the  modernizations 
of  the  older  portions  of  the  Asylum: 

"The  work  of  rebuilding  the  wing  burned  in  the  winter  of  1877, 
was  necessitated  by  the  accident  of  fire,  and  was  not  embraced  in 
the  plan  for  improvements,  with  which  we  commenced  the  biennial 
period.  Since  the  completion  of  the  two  extreme  wings,  in  1873, 
and  the  subsequent  introduction  of  steam  heating,  a  renovation  of 
the  original  wings  which  have  been  long  in  use,  and  subjected  to 
most  wear,  has,  you  are  aware,  been  going  constantly  on.  This  has 
been  necessarily  a  slow  work,  as  it  has  had  to  be  done  under  the  dis- 
advantages of  constant  occupancy,  but  we  have  so  far  accomplished 
it  that  the  wards  have  all  been  painted  throughout  the  Asylum,  and 
many  minor  alterations  made  in  the  original  construction  to  enable 
us  to  introduce  modern  conveniences,  many  of  which  have  been 
detailed  in  the  two  last  published  reports. 

"Early  in  the  winter  of  1877  somewhat  important  alterations 
were  commenced  in  the  centre  building  by  which  the  first  floor  was 
wholly  converted  into  public  use,  and  additional  rooms  for  visiting 
secured;  and  also  at  the  extremity  of  each  wing  from  the  centre,  was 
constructed  a  staircase  opening  into  each  story  and  terminating 
in  the  attic,  and  having  at  the  bottom,  on  the  first  story,  a  door 
opening  out  upon  the  grounds  for  the  daily  use  of  patients  occupy- 
ing these  wings,  and  serving  also  as  a  fire  escape  in  case  of  neces- 
sity.      These  alterations  were  completed  during  the  winter.       Early 


^i8  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

in  the  spring  were  commenced  alterations  in  the  interior  of  the 
Marsh  Building,  by  which  the  rear  halls  were  united  with  the  main 
ones  at  right  angles,  and  a  large  ventilating  shaft  was  constructed  at 
the  angle  of  the  two  wards,  by  which  very  eecellent  results  were 
secured,  and  later  in  the  season  the  wooden  wing  at  the  rear  of  this 
building,  no  longer  required  for  storage  of  fuel,  was  removed,  and 
the  airing  court  for  patients  extended  so  as  to  cover  its  site.  These 
with  the  removal  of  the  rear  staircase,  and  the  renovation  of  several 
of  the  rear  rooms  the  present  year,  have  placed  this  building  in 
a  very  satisfactory  state  of  repair. 

^'  In  the  kitchen  department  the  work  has  been  very  materially 
facilitated  by  the  introduction  of  steam  cooking  apparatus.  By  this 
change  several  separate  fires  have  been  rendered  unnecessary 
and  the  risks  from  that  cause  materially  lessened,  while  over  the 
great  oven  has  been  built  a  fire  proof  section  of  flooring,  most  effect- 
ually shutting  off  the  possibility  of  danger  from  that  source. 

*'At  the  junction  of  the  laundry  with  the  contiguous  wing, 
iron  safety  doors  have  been  set,  so  that  altogether  we  do  not  hesitate 
to  assert  that  the  security  of  the  buildings  is  now  as  complete 
as  is  possible,  where  absolute  fire  proof  arrangements  do  not  exist. 

"  Since  the  date  of  the  last  report  the  steam  heating  apparatus 
has,  been  extended  to  the  Marsh  Building,  and  applied  to  the  cooking 
arrangements,  so  that  this  department  may  be  regarded  as  practically 
complete,  and  by  the  introduction  of  the  fan  the  present  season,  the 
effectiveness  of  the  ventilation  we  fully  believe  will  in  future  be 
found  adequate. 

"  It  is  with  no  little  rejoicing  that  we  are  able  to  record  the 
establishment  of  a  gymnasium.  This  is  one  of  the  compensating 
considerations  resulting  from  the  fire  which  was  a  serious  pecuniary 
loss,  and  unmitigated  save  by  the  advantages  secured  by  improve- 
ments in  rebuilding.  This  annexation  to  the  Asylum  occupies  the 
entire  section  next  the  road  of  the  rebuilt  block,  and  is  abundantly 
adequate  to  the  purpose,  being  about  75x40  feet  in  dimensions,  and 
having  the  height  of  two  stories  in  one,  finished  in  the  roof  to  the 
ridge.  A  bowling  alley  is  laid  the  entire  length  on  one  side,  and  a 
gallery  formed,  by  a  second  story  twenty-four  feet  wide  across  the 
western  end  of  the  building  gives  a  billiard  room,  which  is  furnished 
with  a  fine  table,  the  gift  of  a  life  long  friend  of  the  Asylum." 

At  the  September  meeting  plans  for  further  improvements  were 
discussed,  and  the  Trustees  unanimously  approved  the  suggestion  of 
extending  the  rear  halls  through  the  north  return  wings,  to  the  rear 


0' 


c/: 


wiixsv 


ONicrnriff     hshvk 


IT 


©      © 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  iSyy-'yS.  219 

center  court,  thus  improving  them  in  respect  to  hght,  ventilation  and 
classification,  which  work  was  entered  upon  about  the  close  of 
the  year. 

There  was  expended  in  the  years  1877-78  in  completing  the  system 
of  steam  heating,  introducing  the  ventilating  fan,  and  also  steam 
cooking  utensils,  tea  and  coffee  boilers,  and  all  their  necessary  con- 
nections, $8,888.21.  The  cost  of  work  shop  and  ice  house,  also 
erected"  in  the  latter  part  of  the  year  1878,  was  $5,000. 

The  Commission  appointed  by  the  governor  under  the  Resolution 
approved  November  28,  1876,  made  its  Report  to  His  Excellency  at 
the  session  of  the  Legislature  in  October  of  this  year.  Dr.  M.  Gold- 
smith of  Rutland,  Dr.  O.  F.  Fassett  of  St.  Albans,  and  \V.  H.  Walker, 
Esq.,  of  Ludlow,  were  the  commissioners. 

In  the  exercise  of  their  functions  they  endeavored  to  make 
an  exhaustive  investigation  of  the  Asylum  and  its  management,  and 
in  so  doing  manifestly  went  beyond  the  scope  of  legislative  authori- 
zation. The  chairman  of  the  Commission  states  at  the  outset,  that, 
"  In  the  division  of  labor  among  ourselves,  that  which  relates  to  the 
legal  part  of  our  duties  was  assigned  to  Mr.  Walker.  That  which 
relates  to  the  medical  or  other  treatment  of  the  insane,  w^as  assigned 
to  Dr.  Fassett. 

The  construction  of  the  Asylum,  its  fitness  for  the  care  of  the 
insane,  the  air  space,  ventilation,  food,  washing,  and  administration, 
was  committed  to  Dr.  Goldsmith." 

It  may  here  be  remarked  that  Dr.  Cxoldsmith  had  had  an  exten- 
sive experience  in  army  hospitals,  hence  his  ideas  in  respect  to  all 
hospitals  bore  the  military  stamp;  and  those  points  in  the  Asylum 
that  did  not  conform  to  the  military  notion,  were  naturally  construed 
as  falling  short  of  the  hospital  idea;  nevertheless,  he  does  full  justice 
to  the  faithfulness  of  the  Trustees  in  the  discharge  of  their  trust, 
according  to  their  conception  of  their  duty. 

"These  Trustees,"  he  wTites,  '*are  a  body  of  men  in  which 
changes  are  seldom  made  except  as  death  makes  them,  and  in  most 
cases  the  son  takes  the  honored  father's  place. 

"The  most  searching  inquiry  has  failed  to  find  that  a  single  dol- 
lar of  the  millions  which  have  passed  through  their  hands,  has  ever 
been  misappropriated  or  unaccounted  for.  They  have  always  served 
without  fee  or  reward,  and  fidelity  to  trust  seems  to  be,  and  to  have 
been,  in  each  and  every  case  the  household  God,   heredity  or  not." 

The  followifig  are  the  "  Comments  of  the  Officers  of  the  Asylum 
upon  the  Report  of  the  Special  Commissioners,"  in  full : 


526  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

To  THE  Joint  Committee  on  the  Insane,  and  the  Insane 
Asylum,  of  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representa- 
tives OF  the  General  Assembly  of  Vermont,  now  in 
Session  : 

"Inasmuch  as  the  Report  of  the  Special  Commissioners,  ap- 
pointed by  His  Excellency,  Governor  Fairbanks,  '  To  inquire  into 
the  Statutes  now  in  force,  in  relation  to  the  confinement  and  treat- 
ment of  the  insane  of  our  State,  and  see  what  changes  were  neces- 
sary, if  any,  in  said  laws  ;  also  to  inquire  into  the  treatment  of  our 
insane,  and  determine  what,  if  any,  legislation  was  necessary,'  con- 
tains some  conclusions  from  which  the  Officers  of  the  Asylum  dissent, 
and  some  criticisms  which  they  deem  unjust ;  they,  therefore, 
respectfully  submit  the  following  statement  relative  to  the  points  of 
disagreement,  and  request  that  the  same  be  submitted  by  you,  with 
your  Report  upon  that  of  the  said  Commissioners,  to  the  General 
Assembly. 

''  For  the  sake  of  brevity,  the  officers  of  the  Asylum  will  confine 
their  remarks  solely  to  those  points  upon  which  they  entertain  dif- 
ferent views  from  the  Commissioners. 

"  The  chairman  of  said  Commission,  who,  in  the  division  of  the 
labor,  assigned  to  himself  the  investigation  of  '  The  construction  of 
the  Asylum,  and  its  fitness  for  the  care  of  the  insane,  the  air  space, 
ventilation,  food,  washing  and  administration,'  states  that  in 
three  things,  'space  to  live  in,  pure  air  to  breathe,  and  sufficient 
attendance,  the  great  deficiencies  of  the  Asylum  consist,  and  render  it 
unfit  for  holding  so  many  as  it  now  holds  and  undertakes  to  care  for.' 

"The  over-crowding  to  a  definite  extent  being  conceded,  that  is, 
so  far  as  necessity  has  obliged  the  duplicating  of  beds  in  single 
rooms,  still  the  assertion  is  made  that  'in  the  rooms  provided,  even 
when  occupied  by  the  number  they  were  designed  for,  the  space  and 
air  supply  are  not  sufficient.' 

"  The  capacity  of  the  Asylum,  according  to  its  original  design,  is 
for  400  persons,  patients  and  attendants,  allowing  in  associated  dor- 
mitories the  average  cubic  space  for  each  occupant  that  each  single 
room  contains.  While  we  can  see  advantages  in  larger  rooms,  and 
would  construct  them  larger  if  the  buildings  were  to  be  designed 
anew,  we  are  fully  convinced  that  the  health  of  the  inmates  would 
never  be  prejudiced  if  the  capacity  of  the  Institution  upon  the  basis 
originally  made  were  not  exceeded.  Even  with  the  overcrowding, 
which  in  the  past  has  been  greater  than  it  is  at  present,  we  fail  to 
find  evidences  of  injury  to  health  in  consequence. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  iSyy-'yS.  221 

"  The  mortality,  in  comparison  with  the  other  Asylums  of  New 
England,  has  been  above  three  per  cent,  less  than  the  average  in  the 
past  twelve  years.  This  fact  is  admitted  by  Dr.  Fassett,  who  says  : 
'The  ratio  of  deaths  to  the  average  number  of  inmates  is  less  than 
in  most  Asylums  in  the  country,  while  many  show  a  much  larger 
death  rate — even  double  that  of  the  Vermont  Asylum.' 

''  In  explanation  of  this  favorable  record,  he  suggests  that  fewer 
'new  case's — many  of  which  are  liable  to 'be  acute  and  fatal' — are 
treated  than  in  some  asylums  ;  and  that  many  having  '  friends  and 
homes,  as  the  end  of  life  approaches,  are  taken  to  their  homes  to  die 
among  friends.' 

"Whatever  force  there  may  be  in  the  first  assigned  cause,  there 
is  none  in  the  latter ;  so  rarely  is  a  chronic  case  removed  to  die  at 
home,  that  we  cannot  recall  one  at  the  present  time. 

"  But  a  stronger  argument  even  than  the  light  mortality,  in  favor 
of  the  good  general  hygienic  condition  of  the  inmates,  not  only  at 
present  but  in  all  the  years  past,  is  found  in  the  large  number  of  old 
residents  comprising  the  present  household.  By  reference  to  the 
tabular  statements  contained  in  the  Commissioners'  Report,  it  will  be 
seen  that  twenty  have  been  thirty  or  more  years  in  the  Asylum  ;  six- 
ty-five between  twenty  and  thirty  years,  and  one  hundred  and 
eighteen  between  ten  and  twenty  years.  We  venture  the  opinion 
that  this  state  of  facts  could  not  exist  had  the  sanitary  condition  in 
which  they  have  lived  been  decidedly  bad  in  any  essential  particular. 

"In  noting  the  structural  arrangements  of  asylums,  reference  is 
made  to  the  openings  over  the  doors  of  the  rooms,  and  the  opinion 
expressed  that  '  transoms-  only  permit  the  more  ready  diffusion 
of  gases.  They  cannot  be  said  to  cause  or  allow  ventilation.' 
Also,  '  that  in  effect  the  air  in  asylum  corridors  is  absolutely  still  in 
cold  weather,  or  whenever  the  windows  are  closed,'  unless  in  them 
the  air  may  be  moved  by  artificial  means.' 

"  We  are  disposed  to  accord  more  practical  advantages  to  the 
transoms  as  an  aid  to  ventilation  than  does  Dr.  Goldsmith.  In  truth, 
the  air  in  the  corridors  upon  which  the  rooms  of  the  patients  open, 
is  never  absolutely  still.  There  are  ventilating  flues  from  these  cor- 
ridors communicating  w^th  the  chimneys  of  the  buildings — thirty- 
eight  in  number,  amounting  to  an  area  of  about  ninety  square  feet, 
which,  if  all  concentrated  in  a  single  shaft,  would  require  one  of 
about  nine  feet  by  ten  in  its  diameters — through  which  foul  air  is 
constantly  passing  out  from  the  building,  even  without  the  aid  of 
artificial  means.  In  rooms,  therefore,  not  having  special  flues,  the 
transom  affords  the  substitute  ;  and   as  there  is  always  an  escape  of 


222  ANNALS    OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

foul  air  going  on  from  the  corridors  through  the  flues  mentioned,  it 
follows  that  there  is  an  exhaust  force  acting  to  draw  the  air  from 
these  apartments  through  these  transoms  or  openings  above  the 
doors  of  the  rooms,  which  is  supplemented  and  aided  by  any  inlet  of 
air  from  the  window,  which  is  opposite  the  door  and  transom  of  each 
room.  Even  when  the  window  is  closed,  this  amounts  to  consider- 
able, Dr.  Goldsmith  granting  it,  'to  supplement  one-fourth  of 
the  ventilation  required,'  but  since  the  introduction  of  the  fan, 
the  movement  of  air  throughout  the  building  hds  been  so  greatly 
facilitated,  its  working  having  even  exceeded  our  expectations,  that 
this  exhaust  force  upon  the  rooms  admits  of  easy  demonstration.  Dr. 
Goldsmith  gives  the  cubic  contents  of  the  sleeping  apartments  at 
291,134  feet,  which,  upon  the  basis  of  1,000  feet  per  person,  equals 
the  requirements  for  291  individuals,  and  adds  that  '502  are  made 
to  live  in  what  is  the  minimum  space  for  291.'  This  is  not  strictly 
true.  To  arrive  at  the  total  space  in  which  the  inmates  live,  the 
cubic  contents  of  the  corridors  themselves,  in  which  the  patients 
pass  fully  two-thirds  of  their  time,  (assuming  they  are  always  indoors), 
must  be  added  to  that  in  which  they  lodge;  but  by  a  singular  over- 
sight, as  it  seems  to  us,  the  day  space  in  the  buildings  is  nowhere 
taken  into  account.  This  constant  use  of  the  term  live  in,  instead 
of  lodge  or  sleep  in,  we  think,  tends  to  mislead  the  reader.  Adding 
to  the  cubic  contents  of  the  sleeping  rooms,  already  given  (291,634), 
the  capacity  of  the  corridors  (292,464),  we  have  a  total  space  which, 
on  the  basis  of  400  inmates,  gives  to  each  1,459  cubic  feet  in  which 
to  live,  and  this,  with  our  present  means  of  ventilation,  it  is  possible 
easily  to  change  once  an  hour,  which  Dr.  Goldsmith  himself  regards 
as  a  sufficiently  rapid  movement.  In  this  computation  no  account  is 
taken  of  the  stairways,  bath-rooms,  nor  dining-rooms,  which  are  used 
some  portions  of  each  day  by  the  inmates,  to  the  relief  of  the  wards; 
nor  is  the  time  reckoned  which  is  spent  by  the  patients  out  of  doors, 
still  further  in  favor  of  the  more  perfect  ventilation  of  the  corridors 
and  sleeping  rooms.  It  should  also  be  mentioned  that  there  are 
many  lodging  rooms  of  the  class  designated  unventilated,  in  which 
the  doors  are  lattice-work,  thus  very  largely  favoring  the  air  supply. 
This  is  the  case  in  some  of  the  most  crowded  of  the  female  halls, 
,where  there  are  two  beds  in  single  apartments. 

"On  the  occasion  of  the  Commissioners  most  thorough  inspec- 
tion, the  ventilation  seems  to  be  the  point  most  criticised.  '  In 
every  room  occupied  by  an  inmate  who  had  the  door  and  window 
closed,  the  air  was  foul  and  fetid,'  'fearfully  bad  in  rooms  of  filthy 
patients,  etc.,' 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEARS    iSyy-'yS.  223 

"By  reference  to  the  testimony  it  will  be  seen  that  we  are  care- 
ful to  select,  for  the  use  of  persons  who  are  obliged  to  be  confined 
to  their  rooms  both  day  and  night,  those  specially  heated  and  ventil- 
ated, and  we  are  also  careful  to  prevent,  as  far  as  possible,  the 
voluntary  use  of  sleeping  rooms  in  the  daytime,  except  with  open 
doors.  Practically,  the  bedrooms  are  all  day  undergoing  an  airing 
for  night  use,  and  the  occupancy  of  rooms  that  have  become  foul 
and  fetid  is  exceptional. 

"As  regards  the  wards  and  rooms  of  those  cases  in  which  the 
calls  of  nature  are  disregarded,  and  there  are  quite  a  percentage  in 
every  asylum,  we  do  not  think  it  an  evidence  of  defective  ventilating 
arrangements,  if  disagreeable  odors  are  perceptible ;  we  have 
observed  it  in  the  most,  perfectly  ventilated  buildings  we  have 
visited.  It  is  the  frequent  necessary  renovation  of  such  wards 
and  rooms,  on  account  of  the  filthy  and  destructive  habits  of  such 
inmates,  that  swells  the  annual  account  for  current  repairs,  which, 
to  those  unfamiliar  with  the  practical  care  of  such  institutions, 
appears  disproportionately  large. 

"  In  commenting  upon  the  quality  of  the  atmosphere  in  the 
different  apartments,  the  remark  is  made  that  it  was  found  'most 
pure  in  the  double  rooms  containing  only  one  inmate,  commonly  an 
attendant.'  The  impression  conveyed  by  this  is  that  the  attendants 
are  specially  favored  in  this  respect.  But  the  use  of  double  rooms 
by  single  attendants  is  not  the  common  arrangement.  It  is  the  case, 
in  fact,  only  at  the  Marsh  Building,  and  these  rooms  are  also  used 
as  visiting  rooms  by  friends  of  patients,  therefore  not  exclusively  for 
the  attendants'  use.  In  all  cases  the  rooms  for  the  attendants  are 
selected  by  the  officers,  and  wholly  with  reference  to  the  best 
convenience,  welfare  and  oversight  of  the  inmates. 

"  The  position  of  the  buildings  in  relation  to  the  points  of  the 
compass  are  thus  commented  upon:  '  The  long  axis  of  the  group  of 
buildings,  constituting  the  Asylum,  trends  east  and  west,,  as  will  be 
seen  on  an  inspection  of  the  maps.  It  will  also  be  seen  that  there 
are  nearly  one  hundred  rooms  that  have  hardly  a  ray  of  sunshine 
entering  them.  This  is  always  inevitable  wherever  there  are  rooms 
on  both  sides  of  a  corridor,  and  the  building  trends  east  and  west. 
If  asylums  couid  be  built  as  our  military  hospitals  were,  every  room 
in  them  would  be  flooded  with  sunshine  some  time  during  the  day.' 

"As  Dr.  Goldsmith  intimates,  this  is  a  general  fault  or  fact, 
applicable  to  other  institutions  as  well  as  the  one  under  consideration. 
But  there  are  some  considerations  that  mitigate  it,  some  even  that 
favor  it.     The  general  non-occupancy  of  the  rooms  during  the  day 


224  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

renders  it  less  necessary  that  all  should  be  '  flooded  with  sunshine', 
while  in  cases  of  acute  maniacal  excitement,  it  is  often  the  case  that 
sunlight  is  prejudicial.  This  principle  has  in  some  institutions  led 
to  the  use  of  close  shutters,  making  the  rooms  dark,  for  the  use  of 
patients  in  this  state.  We  have  one  case  of  periodical  excitement, 
now  under  treatment,  in  which  a  congested  state  of  the^  conjunctival 
mucous  membrane  is  an  invariable  accompaniment,  and  who  for  this 
reason  would  be  unable  to  use  a  bright  sunny  room.  In  another, 
for  the  same  reason,  we  have  used  the  blue  glass  window,  with 
advantage  to  the  eyes  if  not  to  the  mind. 

"  It  is  not  thought  that  the  arrangement  of  double  lines  of  rooms 
with  corridor  between,  is  a  disadvantageous  one  to  the  general 
welfare  of  the  inmates  of  institutions  of  this  kind,  as.  there  are  always 
cases  who  can  occupy  the  rooms /r^///  the  sun,  if  not  with  positive 
advantage,  at  least  without  actual  detriment.  We  willingly  admit 
that  too  much  sunlight  cannot  be  let  into  the  corridors  and  alcoves 
appropriated  to  day  use.  Another  fact  should  be  remembered  in 
connection  with  the  use  of  the  rooms  upon  the  side  opposite  to  the 
sunny  exposure,  such  rooms  are  subject  to  frequent  changes  of 
occupants.  Many  patients  are  subject  to  paroxysmal  excitements 
and  require  for  a  few  days  or  weeks  the  use  of  the  rooms  thus 
situated,  but  few  have  constant  occupants.  During  the  hot  season 
these  rooms  become  the  preferable  ones  by  reason  of  their  greater 
comfort,  being  more  exposed  to  the  breeses  and  less  to  the  solar 
heat. 

*'We  are  inclined  to  the  view  that  the  location  of  asylums 
throughout  the  country,  in  respect  to  the  points  of  compass,  has 
been  determined  by  local  advantages  connected  with  the  geography 
of  the  site.  We  are  not  aware  that  a  special  preference  in  respect 
to  frontage  has  been  found  an  essential  desid-eratum.  Certainly 
some  of  the  best  asylums  have  the  same  general  trend  of  buildings 
as  the  Vermont  Asylum.  The  McLean,  and  the  new  Worcester,  in 
Massachusetts,  the  Butler  Hospital  at  Providence,  R.  I.,  the  Bloom- 
ingdale  and  Utica  Asylums,  New  York,  and  the  Morristown  and 
Trenton,  New  Jersey,  are  of  like  trend. 

''Between  the  temperature  of  rooms  specially  heated  and  those 
not  thus  supplied,  there  is  a  difference  of  about  20  degrees  as  a 
rule;  while  the  former  are  kept  at  70  degrees,  the  latter  would  stand 
at  50  degrees.  This  latter  temperature  Dr.  Goldsmith  pronounces 
'not  warm  enough.'  * 

"For  a  feeble  person,  50  degrees  might  not  be  sufficient,  but  for 
a  healthy  one  it  seems  to  us  better  than  any  higher  degree.     We 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   iSyy-'yS.  225 

should  regard  70  degrees  as  enervating  to  a  person  in  ordinary 
health.  We  believe  three-quarters  of  our  household  better  off  to 
sleep  in  a  temperature  of  50  degrees  than  in  any  higher,  and  it  must 
be  borne  in  mind  that  these  statements  of  temperature  apply  to  the 
sleeping  apartments,  not  to  the  corridors. 

"On  the  paper  which  bears  the  outline  of  the  buildings,  sewage, 
etc.,  will  be  seen  a  sketch  of  one  ward  of  the  asylum  at  Concord,  N. 
H.  The  reader  is  left  to  the  inference  that  this  sketch  is  typical  of 
the  whole  of  the  wards  of  that  excellent  institution,  but  such  is  not 
strictly  the  fact. 

"The  building  from  which  this  plan  is  made  was  erected  and 
opened  in  1875.  It  is  their  latest  improvement,  and  contains  rooms 
for  twenty-seven  patients.  In  1868  the  extension,  called  the  Kent 
Building,  designed  for  thirty-three  female  patients  of  the  excited 
class,  was  erected.  These  embrace  every  modern  convenience,  and 
the  advantage  of  ample  space.  The  previously  built  portion,  which 
still  constitutes  the  main  portion,  was  built  substantially  upon  the 
same  scale  as  the  Vermont  Asylum  as  to  capacity  and  size  of  rooms; 
both  were  essentially  modelled  after  the  same  plan. 

"  As  elsewhere  stated,  the  Vermont  Asylum  has  a  total  space,  in . 
the  opinion  of  Dr.  Goldsmith,  for  only  291  inmates.       He,  however, 
states  that  'it  may  be  so  altered  in  his  judgment  as  to  have  space 
and  ventilation  ample  for  325  or  perhaps  350.'     At  present,  however, 
in  his  opinion,  'it  has  ventilation  enough  for  only  149.' 

"In  the  testimony  taken  last  June  we  stated  that  the  system  of 
ventilation,  as  designed  by  us,  then  lacked  the  motive  power  to  make 
it  complete  and  effective.  This  has  been  supplied  and  put  to  use 
since  the  final  visit  of  the  Commissioners.  We  are  convinced  that 
the  practical  working  of  this  fan  will  be  to  supply  the  needed  changes 
of  atmosphere  for  the  fullest  requirements  of  the  number  for  which 
there  is  space. 

"Dr.  Fassett,  to  whom  was  assigned  the  investigation  of  'That 
which  relates  to  the  medical  or  other  treatment  of  the  insane,' 
discusses  at  the  outset  the  questions  of  seclusion  and  restraint,  and 
quotes  from  Dr.  Folsom,  the  able  secretary  of  the  Massachusetts 
Board  of  Health,  '  The  Criminal  Lunatic  Asylum,  at  Broadmoor, 
England,  which  held,  in  1875,  a  daily  average  number  of  503 
inmates,  of  whom  204  had  been  sent  there  for  murder  and  no  for 
attempt  to  murder,  maim,  etc.,  and  yet  no  form  of  mechanical 
restraint  was  used  in  any  part  of  the  asylum  during  the  year.'      And 


226  ANNALS    OF    THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

'with  all  this,  there  were  no  instances  of  the  commission  of  premed- 
itated acts  of  violence,  no  attempt  to  escape  was  even  partially 
successful,  and  there  was  no  accident  which  could  have  been 
prevented  by  the  use  of  mechanical  restraint.' 

"In  referring  to  the  Reports  of  the  English  Commissioners  in 
Lunacy,  we  find  the  explanation  of  this  remarkable  disuse  of 
mechanical  restraint.  In  Report  of  1874,  page  299,  note  the 
following:  '  Mechanical  restraint  has  not  been  employed,  but  during 
the  last  13  months  67  men  and  12  women  have  been  secluded, 
on  account  of  violence,  dangerous  propensities,  or  for  safe  custody, 
the  former  altogether  upon  2,768  occasions,  the  latter  upon  63 
occasions.'  This  was  upwards  of  15  per  cent,  of  the  average  resident 
number  (508).  'Besides  the  above,  54  men  and  22  women  have 
been  secluded  from  time  to  time,  owing  to  maniacal  excitement,  etc' 
This  made  15  per  cent,  additional,  or  upwards  of  30  per  cent,  that 
were  subjected  to  more  or  less  seclusion. 

"  In  explanation  of  this  large  percentage  of  seclusion,  the  Com- 
missioners say  it  is  explained  by  the  medical  superintendent  'to  be 
due  to  the  necessity  which  arose  in  the  early  months  of  the  year  for 
taking  extra  precautions  for  the  safety  of  patients  and  attendants, 
owing  to  the  violence  and  misconduct  of  a  few  of  the  most  trouble- 
some patients  of  the  convict  class ;  but  chiefly  in  the  latter  months 
of  the  year,  in  consequence  of  the  escape  of  two  patients,  necessi- 
tating stricter  measures  generally,  in  order  to  insure  safe  custody.' 

"  In  England  seclusion  is  preferred  to  mechanical  restraint.  In 
this  country  it  is  the  opinion  that  the  interests  of  the  insane  are  best 
served  by  the  avoidance  of  seclusion,  even  if  restraint  must  be  a 
condition  of  its  avoidance.  There  are  now  some  indications  of 
a  common  practice  being  ultimately  reached.  Even  the  English 
Commissioners,  in  their  report  of  1872,  p.  276,  thus  speak:  'It  is 
our  opinion,  many  times  strongly  expressed  in  these  reports,  that  all 
the  bad  qualities  of  such  inmates  are  exaggerated  by  excessive 
seclusion.'  In  the  light  of  the  present,  therefore,  we  believe  we  are 
best  serving  the  cause  in  discarding  neither,  but  in  reducing  both  to 
the  minimum  as  far  as  practicable. 

"Under  the  head  of  'Employment,'  Dr.  Fassett  considers  all 
outdoor  privileges,  and  comments  unfavorably  upon  the  airing 
courts  for  the  disturbed  and  demented  classes,  which  he  considers 
too  small.  This,  he  says,  '  seems  to  us  the  most  inexcusable  of  any 
of  the  faults  of  the  institution.'  Wc  do  not  think  the  purpose  of 
these  airing  courts  was  fully  taken  into  account  by  the 
Commissioners. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  iSyy-'yS.  227 

"  They  are  designed  for  the  use  of  but  a  limited  number  at  most. 
The  larger  proportion  of  the  inmates  enjoy  the  use  of  the  unen- 
closed grounds  in  front  of  the  buildings,  and  are  taken  out  in  groups 
for  exercise  and  diversion  regularly  each  half  day  by  their  attendants, 
and  when  the  winter  closes  in,  the  new  gymnasium,  wnth  sleigh 
riding,  etc.,  will  afford  the  like  opportunities  for  healthful  recreation. 
The  airing  courts  are  immediately  connected  with  the  buildings 
or  wings  occupied  by  the  excited  or  demented  classes,  and  are 
provided  exclusively  for  these  classes,  in  recognition  of  the  necessity 
of  open  air  for  all,  yet  recognizing,  also,  that  such  are  to  be 
protected  from  public  observation  and  remark,  while  laboring  under 
demonstrative  insanity,  or  having  reached  a  helpless  state  of  fatuity. 

"  No  feature  of  an  asylum  is,  in  our  view,  more  beneficent  in  its 
practical  working  than  this.  The  size  of  these  courts  has  been 
determined  by  the  surroundings.  They  could  not  be  materially 
larger  without  exposing  to  public  view  their  occupants.  This  is  the 
point  which,  it  did  not  seem  to  us,  the  Commissioners  fully 
comprehended. 

"  In  considering  the  sanitary  condition  of  the  Asylum,  Dr.  Fassett 
states,  'they  have  estimated  the  lack  of  ventilation,  not  only  by  their 
own  senses,  but  by  the  effect  upon  the  health  of  the  inmates,'  and 
that  '  the  effect  upon  the  health  was  painfully  evident  in  the  pale, 
mottled  faces,  the  cold,  clammy  hands,  the  feeble  circulation,  the 
lack  of  vicality.' 

''  With  such  a  state  of  health,  we  would  naturally  expect  that  the 
death  record  would  show  a  large  mortality  from  tuberculosis  and 
acute  affections,  which  would  be  quickly  fatal  under  such  conditions. 
But  the  record  for  the  past  two  years  shows  but  five  cases  from 
acute  diseases  all  told,  and  but  three  from  consumption  out  of  a 
total  of  sixty-four,  and  this  latter  is  a  malady  that  would  be  specially 
fostered,  as  is  well  known,  by  living  in  impure  air.  We  have  taken 
pains  to  ascertain  the  death  rate  in  all  the  State  Asylums  of  New 
England  for  the  1 2  years  last  past,  and  find  the  mean  average  to  be 
10.38  per  cent,  on  the  average  population  of  each  institution  each 
year. 

"  The  mean  average  of  the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  same  period 
upon  its  average  population,  has  been  but  6.95  per  cent.  We  have 
also  ascertained  the  percentage  of  recoveries  in  the  same  institutions 
for  the  same  period  of  time  upon  those  admitted,  which  we  find  to 
be  3i>^  per  cent.,  and  in  this  respect  the  Vermont  Asylum  does  not 
fall  below  the  others  ;  there  is  scarcely  a  fractional  difference. 


228  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

''With  this  state  of  facts,  the  remarks  made  by  Dr.  Fassett  rela- 
tive to  the  sanitary  condition  of  the  inmates,  in  the  last  quotation, 
seem  contradictory.  'The  pale  mottled  faces,  the  cold  clammy 
hands,  the  feeble  circulation,  the  lack  of  vitality,'  are,  however, 
attributable,  we  believe,  to  another  cause,  and  that  incident  to  the 
malady  under  which  all  the  inmates  labor.  That  cause  is  exhausted 
innervation.  Such  patients  are  not  in  a  condition  of  impoverish- 
ment *of  blood,  biit  there  is  a  want  of  tone  by  reason  of  deficient 
nerve  force.  In  such  cases  there  is  always  a  weak  capillary  circula- 
tion which  gives  rise  to  the  apparent  paleness  and  lack  of  vitality. 
Yet  such  cases  do  not  die  ;  they  often  live  on  for  years  in  just  the 
condition  described,  and  at  last  drop  off  from  sheer  nervous  exhaus- 
tion, without  any  acute  disease  whatever,  simply  because  the  nerve 
force  runs  at  last  to  so  low  an  ebb  that  the  vital  processes  can  no 
longer  be  sustained.  In  contrast  to  these  cases.  Dr.  Fassett  com- 
ments upon  the  'ruddy  faces  and  more  animated  manner  of  the 
classes  regularly  employed,'  drawing  the  inference  that  this  better 
grade  of  cases  illustrate  simply  the  difference  between  indoor  and 
outdoor  advantages.  But  here  again  we  think  he  is  largely  in  error. 
Those  whom  it  is  practicable  to  employ  out  of  doors  in  a  regular 
way,  are  those  who  are  yet  a  long  way  from  that  condition  of 
advanced  dementia  which  is  coincident  with  the  degree  of  enerva- 
tion, which  is  characteristic  of  the  class  he  so  graphically  describes. 
The  latter,  by  outdoor  exposure,  might  indeed  lose  some  of  the 
paleness  incident  to  indoor  life, — become  browned  by  the  sun, — but 
no  amount  of  sunlight  and  forced  labor,  for  it  could  not  be  other  in 
cases  of  advanced  dementia,  would  infuse  into  them  the  ruddy  glow 
of  health  and  the  animated  manner  that  belongs  to  the  earlier  stages 
of  mental  disorder. 

"In  reference  to  the  medical  treatment  of  the  patients,  we  think 
an  erroneous  impression  was  given  in  the  statement  that  'each 
(medical  assistant)  testified  that  he  has  charge  of  one  side  of  this 
large  hospital,  with  the  aid  of  Dr.  Draper,  when  needing  advice.' 

"  The  duties  of  the  Superintendent  are  much  more  individual 
than  would  be  inferred  from  the  above  quotation.  Under  the 
By-Laws  the  duties  of  the  Superintendent  are  clearly  defined  in  this 
respect,  as  follows: 

"Art.  VIII,  Sec.  2.  'In  the  discharge  of  his  duties,  his  first 
care  shall  be  for  the  welfare  of  the  patients  committed  to  the  charge 
of  the  Institution,  and  this  care  must  be  so  far  personal  that  he  shall 
be  at  all  times  conversant  with  the  actual  condition  of  each  indi- 
vidual case  ;  and  he  must  be  responsible  for  the  classification  of  the 
inmates  and  the  general  course  of  treatment  pursued.' 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  iSyy-'yS.  229 

"  In  the  testimony  of  the  Superintendent  before  the  Commission- 
ers appended  to  their  Report,  occurs  this  question,  by  Dr.  Fassett,  and 
answer : 

"  Ques. — '  Do  you  personally  superintend  the  treatment  of  every 
individual  in  the  Asylum,  or  do  you  only  see  them  as  you  are  called 
in  consultation  ? ' 

'' Ans. — 'For  the  general  direction  of  everything  I  am  responsi- 
ble, but  the  carrying  of  it  out  in  detail  is  intrusted  to  my  assistants. 
My  custom  is  to  visit  one  department  of  the  Institution  each  day 
with  the  assistant  of  that  department.  The  assistants  are  required 
to  make  two  regular  visitations  each  day,  but  each  one  of  us  is  sub- 
ject to  the  nurses'  call  at  any  time.' 

'*  The  professional  duty  of  the  Superintendent,  it  will  be  seen  by 
the  above  showing,  is  really  something  more  than  that  of  counselling 
physician  in  cases  of  special  difficulty  ;  it  embraces  primarily  the 
determination  of  the  general  course  of  treatment  of  the  patients 
individually ;  and  the  professional  responsibility  of  the  assistant 
physicians  will  be  best  understood  by  reference  to  the  By-Laws,  Art. 
IX,  Sec.  4,  which  reads  as  follows  : 

" '  They  will  daily,  and  as  much  oftener  as  may  be  necessary, 
report  to  the  Superintendent  upon  the  cases  under  treatment,  relative 
to  the  progress  made,  and  concerning  any  occurrence  of  an  unusual 
or  unexpected  character,  and  consult  with  him  in  reference  to  any 
changes  in  classification  or  treatment  that  may  be  indicated.' 

'*  Of  the  value  of  professional  experience  no  one  can  be  more 
sensible  than  ourselves,  and  in  this  respect  it  does  not  seem  to  us 
that  we  are  open  to  much  criticism.  The  senior  medical  assistant 
has  had  full  six  years'  experience  in  the  specialty  and  entered  it  after 
one  years'  service  in  the  Hartford  City  General  Hospital.  The 
second  has  now  had  about  one  year's  experience  in  his  present  posi- 
tion. We  know  of  no  school  but  this  practical  one,  where  the  expe- 
rience desired  can  be  obtained,  and  neither  certainly  at  present  can 
be  regarded  as  inexperienced. 

"We  gladly  bear  witness  to  the  careful  and  thorough  investiga- 
tions of  the  Commissioners,  both  in  reference  to  the  fitness  of  the 
Asylum  for  its  purposes,  and  in  reference  to  the  actual  treatment  of 
the  inmates ;  yet,  with  all  due  respect,  cannot  but  believe  that  a 
personal,  practical  experience  of  their  own  in  the  care  of  the  insane, 
would  have  modified  more  or  less  their  conclusions  and  recommend- 
ations. 

"In  the  Report  of  Mr.  Walker  upon  the  legal  relations'of  the 
Asylum  to  the  State,  he  remarks  that   '  The   Trustees   have   always 


230  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

sought  the  patronage  of  the  State  and  been  willing,  so  far  as  the 
Commissioners  have  been  able  to  learn,  to  receive  the  State  benefi- 
ciaries at  the  prices  fixed  by  the  Legislature. 

"  How  far  this  statement  holds,  does  not  require  very  extended 
research  to  show.  This  is  the  third  time  that  the  Legislature  has 
respectfully  been  asked  to  raise  the  price  of  caring  for  the  insane, 
to  a  figure  that  would  cover  the  actual  cost,  and  that  the  Trustees 
have  publicly  and  emphatically  expressed  their  iinwillingness  to  care 
for  these  classes  at  the  expense  of  others,  as  the  refusal  of  the  request 
has  obliged  them  partially  to  do. 

"In  respect  to  the  admission  to,  and  discharge  of  patients  from 
the  Asylum,  the  Commissioners  are  of  the  opinion  that  the  laws  are 
defective,  and  '  recommend  the  enactment  of  such  laws  as  will  tend 
more  effectually  to  prevent  the  wrongful  detention  of  persons, 
claimed  to  be  insane,  in  any  Asylum  in  the  State.' 

"  The  manner  in  which  the  insane  poor  may  be  wrongfully 
detained  is  dwelt  upon,  and  the  statement  made  that  'the  Commis- 
sioners fear  there  may  be  one  or  more  such  cases  now  confined  at 
Brattleboro  who  ought  to  be  discharged.' 

''  In  replying  to  this,  we  deem  it  sufficient  to  say  that,  in  our 
judgment,  no  person  of  sufficiently  sane  mind  to  be  safely  at  large 
and  capable  of  caring  for  himself  or  herself  is  there  detained. 

'*  It  is  stated  that  '  the  Commissioners  have  learned  that  formerly 
it  was  the  custom  of  the  Superintendent  to  allow  patients  to  execute 
deeds  of  real  estate ;  but  that  they  have  not  learned  whether  this 
practice  is  still  continued  or  not.' 

"The  present  Superintendent  has  no  recollection  of  any  occasion 
for  such  a  transaction  during  the  time  he  has  been  in  charge,  and  is 
not  cognizant  of  any  such  at  any  former  period. 

"On  the  question  of  the  supervision  of  the  correspondence  of  the 
patients,  the  views  of  the  Superintendent  are  given  in  the  printed 
testimony,  and  need  not  be  here  repeated.  We  would  only  say  that 
in  this  matter  we  have  pursued  the  universal  course,  which  the  past 
experience  of  those  qualified  to  judge  has  shown  to  be  for  the  best 
interest  of  the  inmates,  who,  from  the  nature  of  the  malady  they 
labor  under,  are  irresponsible,  and  require  guardianship  and  over- 
sight to  shield  them  from  the  indiscretions  incident  to  their  insanity. 
As  a  matter  of  fact,  much  of  the  correspondence  of  the  patients 
passes  unread  and  even  unopened,  the  supervision  being  only  that  of 
a  general  knowledge  of  the  channels  in  which  it  drifts. 

"'J'hough    the   statement   is   made   in  a  general  way  that  'some 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   iSyy-'yS.  231 

insane  asylums'  adopt  the  unrestricted  course  of  exercising  no  over- 
sight of  the  patients  in  this  respect,  it  is  not  supported  by  citing  any 
institution  in  which  this  practice  prevails,  and  we  know  of  none.  In 
addition  to  the  -reasons  given  in  the  testimony  of  the  Superintendent 
referred  to,  there  is  one  which  is  not  there  noted,  but  which  seems  to 
us  worthy  of  mention,  as  showing  it  to  be  an  advantage  for  the  physi- 
cian having  charge  of  the  patient  to  have  also  the  supervision  of  his 
correspondence.  It  is  that  the  letters  or  writings  of  the  patient  are 
the  best  key  to  his  mental  state.  In  conversation  the  patient  may  be 
reticent  or  suspicious  of  all  inquiries  made  of  him,  or  he  may  dissem- 
ble and  endeavor  to  appear  better  than  he  is,  in  the  hope  of  an  early 
release  from  confinement ;  but  in  the  absence  of  an  interrogator  and 
uninfluenced  by  the  presence  of  any  one  to  check  or  turn  the  current 
of  his  thought,  by  writing  he  expresses  more  the  genuineness  of  his 
ideas  and  the  delusions  that  possess  him.  It  is  in  this  way  that  the 
first  evidences  of  convalescence  and  coherence  may  often  be 
detected,  and  the  understanding  of  individual  cases  be  materially 
aided. 

"The  large  proportion  of  the  patients  of  this  State,  who  are 
supported  or  aided  by  the  State,  and  the  small  number  who  are 
supported  by  private  means,  is  commented  upon  by  Mr.  Walker,  who 
remarks,  this  fact  'suggests  wrong  somewhere.' 

"In  explanation  of  this,  his  first  inquiry  is:  'Do  the  citizens  of 
the  State,  who  are  able  to  pay  for  the  support  of  their  insane,  send 
them  out  of  the  State,  and  avoid  the  Vermont  Asylum  because  other 
States  have  superior  hospitals,  where  the  patients  are  better  cared  for 
and  treated  ? ' 

"  On  this  point  we  have  the  testimony  of  Dr.  Fassett  in  reply. 
We  were  assured  by  him  on  the  occasion  of  his  last  visit  at  Brattle- 
boro,  that  in  his  visits  to  other  asylums  he  had  made  investigation 
upon  this  point,  biit  failed  to  find  this  to  be  the  case  to  any  extent. 
In  the  Concord  Institution,  the  nearest  and  most  available  to  Ver- 
mont, he  found  but  one.  The  question  is  therefore  unanswered  by 
this  in(|uiry.  Again  he  essays  a  possible  solution  of  the  distasteful 
fact :  '  Can  it  be  possible  that  the  State  is  being  defrauded  by  indi- 
viduals and  officers  of  the  Asylum  combining  to  have  private  patients 
classed  as  State  beneficiaries?'  On  the  page  immediately  preceding 
this  inquiry,  Mr.  W^alker  observes,  'Men  and  corporations  are  unfor- 
tunately greatly  influenced  and  moved  by  money  considerations. 
Such  influences  are  potent ;  they  permeate  almost  every  measure. 
Benevolent  and  philanthropic  measures  and  institutions  do  not 
always  escape  them.'     That   the   key  note  were   here   struck  might 


232  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

indeed  be  imagined,  if  by  this  arrangement  the  Asylum  would  receive 
a  higher  rate  per  week  ;  but  the  facts  are,  that  while  no  private 
patient  is  received  for.  less  than  $3.50  per  week,  besides  clothing, 
beneficiaries  are  received  at  $3.00,  and  the  Asylum  has  the  privilege 
of  clothing  them  at  its  own  expense  !  This  second  query,  therefore, 
fails  to  give  a  satisfactory  answer,  and  Mr.  Walker  propounds  no 
further.  The  facts,  whatever  their  significance  may  be,  are  as  fol- 
lows : 

"The  whole  number  of  patients  belonging  to  Vermont  in  the 
Asylum  August  ist,  1878,  at  date  of  last  Report,  was  326,  instead  of 
364  as  stated  by  Mr.  Walker,  no  doubt  by  error.  Of  this  number  31 
were  supported  wholly  by  private  means,  but  21  of  these  paid  but 
$3.50  per  week  besides  clothing  ;  127  were  wholly  supported  by  the 
State  at  $3  i)er  week  inclusive  of  clothing;  168  were  beneficiaries, 
/".  e.^  received  75  cents  per  week  from  State  in  aid  of  their  support. 
Of  these  142  were  supported  by  towns,  and  26  only  were  aided 
by  the  State,  on  the  certificates  of  the  selectmen  of  the  towns  where 
they  reside,  that  they  were  proper  subjects  to  receive  such  aid,  under 
the  provisions  of  the  Statutes  for  the  relief  of  the  insane  poor. 
The  friends  instead  of  towns,  make  up  the  balance  of  support  in  the 
latter  cases. 

"It  is  in  respect  to  this  latter  class  that  Mr.  Walker  'apprehends 
there  may  have  been  some  who  have  received  the  State  aid  of  75 
cents  per  week  improperly.'  This  is  a  matter  for  which  the  select- 
men of  the  towns  where  such  patients  reside  are  wholly  responsible, 
and  if  any  are  thus  improperly  aided,  it  is  doubtless  due  to  a  misap- 
prehension of  the  strict  meaning  of  the  Statutes,  by  which  indigent 
though  not  absolutely  destitute  and  dependent  persons,  are  made 
beneficiaries.  This  is  not  a  matter  in  which  the  officers  of  the 
Asylum  can  be  in  any  manner  an  interested  party. 

"The  recommendations  of  Mr.  Walker  claim  carefyl  consider- 
ation. It  matters  not  to  the  Asylum  whether  the  supervision  of  the 
insane  be  committed  to  a  board,  or  assigned  to  a  commissioner 
as  under  the  existing  law.  The  proposition,  however,  to  delegate-  to 
a  supervisory  board  the  arbitrary  power  of  discharging  patients,  that 
have  been  placed  by  their  friends  or  the  public  authorities  in  the 
care  of  the  officers  of  the  Asylum,  in  compliance  with  every  legal 
requirement,  will  in  our  opinion  be  liable  to  lead  to  conflicts  of 
authority,  culminating  in  acts  in  which  the  rights  of  committing 
parties,  and  the  professional  judgment  of  the  medical  officers  will  be 
set  aside.  The  value  of  special  experience  in  dealing  with  and 
judging  of  the   insane,   the  Commissioners  who   make  this  report 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   iSyy-'yS.  233 

particLikirly  dwell  upon  as  essential ;  and  the  question  naturally 
presents  itself,  will  the  qualifications  of  such  a  board  as  it  is  proposed 
to  create  be  likely  to  be  adeqilate  to  the  responsibility  it  is  proposed 
to  shoulder  upon  it? 

"Inhibatory  legislation  must  be  very  guarded  not  to  defeat 
by  reaction  the  real  interests  of  the  class  of  persons  whose  welfare 
is  at  stake,  and  the  officers  of  the  Asylum  recognize  in  the  proposi- 
tions urged  a  tendency  to  antagonistic,  rather  than  co-ordinate 
working,  in  a  cause  having  but  the  single  ultimate  object  for  all 
engaged,  namely,  the  welfare  of  the  insane. 

".Concerning  the  correspondence  of  the  inmates,  the  officers 
of  the  Asylum  desire  that  every  needed  privilege  should  be  secured 
to  them,  but  are  convinced  that  the  recommendations  of  Mr.  Walker 
go  a  step  farther  than  is  practicable,  necessary  or  wise.  After  spec- 
ifying the  privileges  in  this  respect  in  detail  which  should  be 
inviolable,  all  the  rest  of  the  correspondence,  Mr.  Walker  suggests, 
'  Should  be  sent  unread  by  the  officers  of  the  Asylum  to  the  guardian 
or  someone  of  the  next  of  kin,  or  other  suitable  person,  to  be  disposed  of 
as  he  deems  best  for  all  concerned. ' 

"  First,  this  is  not  practicable,  for  the  reason  that  but  few  patients 
comparatively  are  under  guardianship,  and  many  have  no  near  kin. 
In  the  absence  of  guardians  or  near  kin,  Mr.  Walker  does  not 
indicate  who  would  be  a  'suitable  person.'  But  evidently  he  does 
not  consider  the  value  of  this  surplus  correspondence  much,  as 
he  is  willing  to  leave  it  to  anybody  but  the  officers  of  the  Asylum,  (to 
whom  it  might  possibly  be  a  benefit,  as  affording  a  clue  to  some  of 
the  obscurities  of  the  patients'  mental  disorder,)  '  to  be  disposed  of 
as  seemed  best  for  all  concerned!' 

"We  regret  to  feel  obliged  to  criticise  with  apparent  severity 
these  recommendations,  but  the  tendency  of  them  seems  to  be  to 
create  antagonisms  of  authority,  and  to  place  those  in  charge  of 
Asylums  in  a  false  attitude  toward  the  inmates.  There  is  at  least 
an  implied  reflection  upon  their  honesty. 

"  We  respectfully  submit  that  in  all  this  matter  somebody  must  be 
trusted. 

"The  penalties  suggested  for  the  imaginary  infractions  of  the 
proposed  laws  are  severe,  and  we  think  without  precedent ;  and  so 
long  as  but  one  Asylum  exists  in  the  State,  its  officers  cannot  but 
understand  that  in  all  this  proposed  stringent  legislation,  they  alone 
are  meant. 

"  In  all  the  recommendations  made  we  note  no  suggestion  that 
the  insane  of  the  State,  not  in  the  Asylum,  should  be  looked  after! 


234  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

although  this  was  a  point  pressed  by  Commissioner  Calderwood  in 
his  report  for  the  two  years  past,  who  states  that  '  there  are  scattered 
throughout  the  State  not  less  than  i8o,  of  whom  60  are  cared  for  by 
towns,  either  boarded  out  in  families,  or  kept  in  poor  houses,'  which 
latter  places  Dr.  Fassett  states,  'none  claim  to  furnish  any  proper 
treatment.' 

''  The  supervision  proposed  therefore  embraces  but  a  moiety 
of  the  msane  of  the  State  in  its  provisions,  and  that  portion,  too,  the 
one  already  under  a  chartered,  permanent  official  oversight.  It 
seems  rather  the  Asylum  and  its  officers,  than  the  insane,  for  whom 
legislation  is  proposed!  To  those  in  other  States  where  a  broad  and 
comprehensive  system  of  supervising  public  charities  exists, 
embracing  not  alone  the  asylums  and  the  insane,  but  the  prisons 
and  the  reformatories,  and  their  inmates,  all  classes  of  dependents; 
such  partial  and  special  legislation  cannot  but  be  regarded  as  narrow 
rather  than  wise,  liberal  and  broadly  philanthropic. 

"To  the  concluding  recommendations  of  the  Commissioners,  the 
officers  of  the  Asylum  have  little  to  say.  The  meaning  of  the  clause 
immediately  preceding  the  recommendation  for  a  new  Asylum,  viz.: 
'  Considering  the  condition  in  which  we  found  the  pauper  insane 
in  the  Asylum  at  Brattleboro,'  is  somewhat  vague,  but  seems  rather 
to  reflect  upon  those  having  them  in  charge.  If  this  be  so,  we 
would  respectfully  ask,  does  the  cause  for  blame  lie  with  the  officers 
of  the  Asylum,  or  with  the  State  ? 

"  Mr  Walker  reluctantly  concedes,  that  the  present  rate  leaves 
the  Asylum  in  debt,  even  after  throwing  out  of  account  all  expendi- 
tures of  a  permanent  character,  and  the  item  of  interest  on  the  debt 
incurred  for  improving  the  accommodations  for  the  insane,  in 
the  five  years  past. 

"  Dr.  Fassett  affirms  that  '  There  is  no.  similar  institution  in  New 
England  where  the  cost  is  not  more  than  that  allowed  the  Vermont 
Asylum,'  and  further  says,  the  policy  of  the  State  in  reference  to  the 
care  of  the  insane  reminds  him  of  an  old  history,  '  For  there  shall 
no  straw  be  given  you,  yet  shall  you  deliver  the  tale  of  bricks.' 

"  Dr.  Goldsmith  virtually  admits  the  necessity  for  more  liberal 
support,  by  recommending  $3.50  per  week  for  the  inmates  of  the 
embryo  Asylum. 

"The  Vermont  Asylum- asks  it,  that  it  may  receive  the  actual 
cost  of  caring  for  those  at  present  in  its  keeping. 

J.  DRAPER, 
Secretary  of  Hoard  of  Trustees  and  Superintendent. 
Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insaiie,  iJrattleboro,  Nov.  11,  1878. 


RECORD    OF    THF:    YEARS    iSyy-'yS.  235 

The  following  is  the  Report  of  the  Joint  Legislative  Committee 
of  this  year  in  full  : 

To  THE   Honorable   Senate   and    House  of   Representatives 
NOW  IN  Session  : 

''The  Standing  Committee  of  the  Senate  and  House  of  Rep- 
resentatives on  the  Insane  Asylum  respectfully  state  :  That  in 
compliance  with  a  joint  resolution  in  that  behalf  they  have  performed 
their  duties,  and  now  present  this  their  Report: 

"That  on  the  eleventh  day  of  November,  A.  D.  1878,  they  visited 
the  Insane  Asylum  at  Brattleboro,  and  made  as  full  examination  of 
the  same  as  time  would  permit  ;  and  also  examined  the  Trustees 
and  officers  of  the  Asylum  as  to  matters  pertaining  to  the  adminis- 
tration of  the  Institution,  as  well  as  the  relation  of  the  same  to  the 
State. 

"  In  view  of  the  late  report  made  by  the  Commission  created 
under  joint  resolution  No.  137,  of  the  session  of  1876,  we  did  not 
deem  it  necessary  to  carry  our  examination  and  investigation  as  far 
as  we  otherwise  might.  As  we  understand  the  matter,  the  report  of 
said  former  Commission  states  correctly  the  relation  of  the  State  to 
the  Asylum,  and  we  need  hardly  to  say  that  the  relation  is  not  only 
peculiar,  but  is  of  itself  an  anomaly. 

"  The  State  has  been  for  years  and  now  is  sending  its  insane 
paupers  to  the  care  of  an  Institution  over  which  it  has  no  control — 
except  to  regulate  abuses,  if  any  there  are — and  in  which  it  has  no 
recognized  interest,  upon  terms  as  to  compensation  of  its  own 
making  from  time  to  time,  and  so  far  as  it  appears  without  even  the 
implied  assent  of  the  officers  of  the  Asylum  ;  it  is  only  necessary  to 
state  tKis  fact  to  make  apparent  the  unusual,  and,  to  say  the  least, 
not  creditable  position  of  the  State  in  the  premises.  Your  commit- 
tee are  of  the  opinion  that  the  price  paid  to  the  Asylum  by  the  State 
for  the  support  of  its  insane  is  quite  sufficient  in  view  of  the  some- 
what limited,  if  not  inadequate,  accommodations  furnished  a  portion 
of  the  patients  ;  at  the  same  time  it  is  but  just  to  say  that  the  past 
and  present  expense  to  the  State  for  the  support  of  its  insane  poor, 
is  undoubtedly  much  less  than  it  would  or  could  be  in  a  State 
asylum,  especially  if  regard  was  had  to  expense  of  building  and  fur- 
nishing an  asylum;  at  the  same  time  your  committee  cannot  avoid 
the  conclusion  that  while  the  Asylum  at  Brattleboro  gives  to  the 
State  a  fair  return  in  a  pecuniary  point  of  view  for  what  the  State 
pays,  the  care  and  accommodations  furnished  to  our  insane  unfor- 
tunates, are  not  such  as  to  meet  the  approval  of  the  good  sense  and 


236  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

humanity  that  pervades  a  large  majority  of  the  people  of  the  State. 
And  in  this  connection  we  do  not  intend  or  desire  to  reflect  upon  the 
managers  or  management  of  the  Asylum  at  Brattleboro,  but  on  the 
contrary  we  desire  to  put  upon  record  our  approval  of  both  managers 
and  management.  The  trouble  lies  in  the  fact  that  the  asylum  has 
not  sufficient  capacity  to  meet  the  wants  of  the  State,  and  at  the 
same  time  to  receive  such  other  patients  as  the  managers  naturally 
prefer  ;  so  that  the  Institution  is  crowded  to  such  an  extent  that  as 
to  some  of  the  "wards  "  or  "  halls"  there  is  a  very  apparent  want  of 
ventilation  and  of  attendants.  To  cure  these  real  or  supposed  ends 
would  require  quite  a  large  outlay  of  money  in  the  erection  of  new 
buildings,  and  in  having  a  larger  corps  of  attendants,  an  expense 
which,  in  the  judgment  of  your  committee,  we  cannot  reasonably 
expect  the  managers  of  the  Institution  to  undertake  for  the  benefit 
of  the  State.  Your  committee  have  carefully  considered  the  report 
of  Dr.  Goldsmith  and  his  associates  hereinafter  referred  to,  and 
desire  to  say  that  the  result  of  our  examination  and  investigation  is 
such  that  without  scarcely  an  exception  we  can  and  do  approve  of 
their  comments,  strictures  and  conclusions,  and  especially  do  we 
believe  that  it  is  the  fij'st  duty  of  the  State  to  take  and  carry  out  the 
necessary  measures  to  erect,  furnish  and  complete  a  State  asylum  for 
the  Insane,  the  same  to  be  plain  but  substantial,  and  built  with  refer- 
ence to  the  comfort  and  health  of  patients,  aided  by  the  many 
modern  appliances  now  in  use  in  similar  institutions  in  our  sister 
States  ;  and  in  the  opinion  of  your  committee  there  is  no  subject 
with  which  the  State  has  at  present  to  do,  that  so  earnestly  calls  and 
demands  the  action  and  persistent  efforts  of  our  present  Legislature 
as  the  one  in  question.  We  apprehend  that  there  are  many  persons 
in  the  Asylum  at  this  time  who  are  not  State  beneficiaries,  in  fact, 
but  ^Uoivn  paupers,"  who  have  been  improperly  saddled  on  to  the 
State  under  the  selfish  and  loose  (if  not  reprehensible)  practice  of 
town  authorities  in  that  behalf.  Legislation  is  needed  to  cure  this 
abuse. 

"Your  Committee  have  given  attention  to  the  report  of  William  H. 
Walker,  Esq.,  hereinbefore  referred  to,  so  far  as  the  same  suggests 
legislative  aid  on  enactments  in  reference  to  the  subject  under  con- 
sideration, and  we  recommend  that  his  suggestions  be  followed  in 
the  main,  and  to  that  end  we  herewith  report  certain  bills  for  your 
consideration  and  action. 

"Your  Committee  further  recommend,  that  it  is  the  duty  of  the 
State  to  provide  for  the  safe  and  comfortable  care  of  the  insane  con- 
victs and  criminals  of  the  State,  at  or  in  connection  with  the  State 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   iSyy-'yS.  237 

prison,  rather  than  by  sending  them  to  the  Asylum,  to  be  kept  with 
the  insane  unfortunates  not  convicts  or  criminals  ;  and  we  respect- 
fully suggest  that  this  matter  may  be  very  properly  considered  in 
connection  with  the  proposed  additions  to  the  State  prison. 

''  Your  Committee  have  received  the  'Comments  of  the  Officers  of 
the  Vermont  Asylum  for  the  Insane,  on  the  report  of  the  Special 
Commissioners,'  but  have  received  the  same  too  late  for  perusal,  and 
we  call  your  attention  to  it,  believing  that  it  merits  your  candid  con- 
sideration. 

"All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted, 

E.  J.  ORMSBEE,  Senate  Committee. 

W.  F.  TEMPLETON, 

J.  L.  HARRINGTON,  (  „  .. 

A.  F.  HUBBARD,  ^  ^^"^^  Committee. 

F.  A.  DWINELL, 

"While  I  concur  with  the  majority  of  the  Committee  in  the 
greater  part  of  their  report  and  recommendations,  I  must  say  that  I 
could  not  discover  a  "want  of  proper  ventilation  "  in  any  part  of  the 
Asylum,  with  the  exception  of  the  Marsh  Building  (so  called),  and 
the  managers  of  the  Asylum  informed  us  that  they  were  preparing 
to  remedy  the  same,  and  shall  remove  all  cause  of  complaint. 

"In  my  judgment  if  the  State  will  take  measures  to  remove  from 
the  Asylum  the  insane  criminals  there  confined,  and  the  demented 
paupers,  that  the  accommodations  of  the  Institution  will  then  be 
ample  to  properly  supply  all  the  wants  of  the  State. 

"I  do  not  approve  of  all  the  '■comments^  strictures  Sind  conclusions' 

of  the  Commissioners  referred  to  in  said  report,  nor  do  I  believe  that 

the  State  at  the   present  time  should  erect  a  State  asylum  for  the 

Insane. 

C.  W.  WITTERS, 

Of  Senate  Committee. 
The  Legislature,  at  its  session  in  1878,  made  a  complete  revision 
of  the  lunacy  laws.  The  office  of  Commissioner  of  the  Insane,  insti- 
tuted in  1845,  was  this  year  abolished,  and  a  Board  of  Supervisors  of 
the  Insane  created.  This  Board  was  to  be  always  composed  of  two 
physicians  and  one  lay  member,  and  besides  being  charged  with 
visitorial  power,  they  were  empowered  to  examine  into  all  complaints 
and  to  order  the  discharge  of  any  persons  in  their  judgment  unwar- 
rantably confined  in  the  Asylum.  In  short,  a  permanent  investi- 
gating committee  was  henceforth  established. 


RECORD  OF   i879-'8o 


AT  the  Annual    Meeting,    1879,   the   officers   chosen   were    the 
following :  . 

OFFICERS  OF  THE    HOARD. 

Fred'k  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
Fred'k  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 
J.  M.  Clark,  ist  Assistant  Physician. 
O.  W.  Phelps,  2nd  Assistant  Physician. 
Mary  Draper,  Matron. 
Asa  Gilkey,  Farmer. 

It  was  Voted — "To  amend  Article  III  of  the  By-Laws,  so  as  to 
embrace  in  the  list  of  resident  officers  a  steward,  who  shall  be  annu- 
ally elected  by  the  Trustees,  in  the  same  manner  as  the  assistant 
physicians,  matron  and  farmer  ; "  and  Porter  C.  Spencer  (who,  since 
May,  1877,  had  filled  the  position  of  business  clerk),  was  elected  to 
the  position  with  the  following  defined  duties  : 

Sec.  I.  The  steward  shall  have  the  oversight  and  charge  of  the 
stores,  and  of  the  disbursement  of  supplies  to  the  wards  and  to  the 
various  departments,  and  issue  the  same  under  the  approval  and 
regulations  of  the  superintendent,  "keeping  books  showing  receipts 
and  disbursements,  and  accounts  with  the  different  patients  and 
departments  as  the  superintendent  may  require. 

Sec.  2.  He  shall  assist  in  maintaining  the  police  of  the  estab- 
lishment, see  that  the  yards,  cellars,  basements,  sewers,  store-houses, 
shops,  farmer's  quarters,  gymnasium,  and  all  the  buildings  except 
those  occupied  by  the  patients  and  the  farm  buildings  proper,  are 
kept  clean  and  orderly  at  all  times  by  those  whose  duty  it  is  to  care 
for  them  in  detail,  and  look  carefully  to  the  economy  of  the  stores  of 
the  establishment  in  every  way,  allowing  nothing  to  be  wasted  or  to 
run  to  waste  from  neglect. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   i8Tg-'8o.  239 

Sec.  3.  He  shall  assist  the  superintendent  in  the  way  of  business 
generally,  and  ascertain  and  report  the  wants  of  the  establishment  to 
him,  and  make,  under  his  direction,  such  purchases  as  he  may 
authorize,  rendering  accounts  to  him  daily,  or  at  such  times  as  he 
may  require. 

Sec.  4.  He  shall  be  on  duty  during  the  day  time,  and  not  absent 
himself  during  business  hours  from  the  Asylum,  unless  in  the  line  of 
duty,  or  by  permission  of  the  superintendent. 

Vofed  also,  "  That  the  superintendent  be  instructed  to  go  on  with 
the  work  of  improving  the  wards  (especially  those  in  the  first  wing 
adjoining  the  centre,  on  the  east),  by  new  ceilings  and  flooring  in  the 
halls,  and  all  other  repairs  needful  to  their  thorough  renovation." 

April  2,  1880,  the  house  and  lot,  with  blacksmith's  shop  thereon, 
situated  upon  the  west  side  of  the  Newfane  road,  between  .the  David 
W.  Miller  place  and  the  Newman  Allen  farm,  was  purchased  of 
George  and  Polly  C.  Person  for  the  sum  of  $1800.  At  the  July 
meeting  of  the  Board,  the  Trustees  signed  a  petition  to  the  select- 
men to  lay  out  and  open  a  road  from  Mechanics',  or  Forest  Square 
to  the  Newfane  road  north  of  the  David  W.  Miller  place,  and  Foted, 
"To  give  the  land  and  fencing."  This  road  separated  from  the  farm 
proper  about  thirty  acres  of  land  west  of  the  main  highway,  including 
the  wooded  hill  above  the  Marsh  Building  ;  and  this,  upon  the  sug- 
gestion of  Mr.  Tyler,  it  was  determined  should  be  developed  into  a 
park  for  the  use  of  the  patients.  Thus  was  this  feature  established 
and  entered  upon. 

At  the  Annual  Meeting  this  year  the  following  elections  were 
made. 

OFFICERS  OF   THE   BOARD. 

Fred'k  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
Fred'k  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 

J.  M.  Clark,  ist  Assistant  Physician. 

O.  W.  Phelps,  2nd  Assistant  Physician. 

Mary  Draper  Phelps,  Matron. 

P.  C.  Spencer,  Steward. 

Asa  Gilkey,  Farmer. 
The  Report  of  the  Trustees  for  the  biennial  term  ending  July  31, 
1880,  is  brief,  and  this  period  is  characterized  as  one  of  quiet,  steady 
work,  and  of  progress  in  all  the  essential  objects  of  the   Institution. 


240  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

The  Trustees  remark  upon  the  extensive  alterations  and  improve- 
ments made  in  some  of  the  wards,  which  have  reduced  somewhat 
the  receiving  capacity  of  the  buildings  by  appropriating  to  other 
important  uses  some  space  formerly  occupied  by  sleeping  rooms. 
The  detail  of  "  Improvements  in  the  two  years,"  is  given  in  the 
Superintendent's  Report,  in  substance  as  follows  : 

"In  the  beginning  of  1879,  were  commenced  the  alterations  and 
partial  reconstruction  of  the  wards  in  the  rear  wings  approved  by 
the  Trustees  at  their  September  meeting,  1878.  This  work  occupied 
the  whole  year,  as  it  had  to  be  done  under  the  disadvantages  of  con- 
stant occupancy  ;  but  it  is  safe  to  say  that  no  one  year's  work  has 
more  essentially  changed  for  the  better  the  interior  of  the  buildings. 
There  is  now  no  ward  of  the  Asylum  that  does  not  open  freely  to 
the  light  and  air  at  each  extremity,  and  that  has  not  likewise  an 
alcove  upon  the  sunny  side,  in  which,  as  in  a  sitting-room,  the 
patients  may  congregate.  These  alterations  involved  the  construc- 
tion of  six  new  bath  rooms,  water  closets,  and  clothing  rooms,  three 
upon  each  side  of  the  house,  thereby  adding  greatly  to  these  most 
necessary  accommodations.  Floors  had  to  be  relaid  and  ceilings 
made  entirely  new.  A  new  staircase  had  to  be  constructed  in  each 
wing  thus  altered,  and  this  was  made  to  include  a  brick  shaft  for 
soiled  clothing  from  each  story.  Old  walls  had  to  be  taken  down 
from  attic  to  cellar,  and  new  ones  built  up  ;  and  in  doing  this,  addi- 
tional flues  for  heating  and  ventilating  were  introduced.  Altogether, 
the  work  was  a  thorough  one,  and  made  a  radical  improvement  in 
the  plan  of  the  buildings.  Simultaneously  with  this,  very  consider- 
able improvements  were  made  in  the  Marsh  Building.  A  tunnel  was 
constructed  from  the  main  buildings  beneath  the  road,  through 
which  were  carried  all  steam  and  water  pipes,  and  by  this  means  this 
detached  building  was  likewise  brought  within  reach  of  the  fan,  and 
under  the  system  of  forced  ventilation.  Nothing  has  been  more 
satisfactory  in  its  practical  working  than  this  artificial  aid  to  ventila- 
tion. Our  anticipations  from  it  have  been  more  than  realized.  The 
extremity  of  the  air  chamber  in  the  rear  wing  of  the  Marsh  Building 
was  made  to  terminate  at  a  bench  of  heating  radiators,  supplying 
rooms  before  indirectly  warmed  and  which  were  supplemented  by 
flues  communicating  with  an  additional  ventilating  chimney. 

The  work  of  renovating  the  east  wing  next  the  center,  as  directed 
at  the  annual  meeting,  1879,  engaged  attention  early  in  the  year 
1880,  and  occupied  nearly  the  whole  season. 

Considerable  space  is  given  in  the  Superintendent's  Report  to  the 
discussion  of  the  Causes  and  Phases  of  Insanity,  which  is  here  repro- 
duced : 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  iSjg-'So.  241 

"  The  deeper  we  penetrate  into  the  subject,  the  more  we  grow 
into  the  conviction  that  constitutional  predispositions  operate  much 
more  potently  in  the  production  of  insanity  than  the  multiplied  excit- 
ing causes,  which  have  come  to  be  regarded  as  factors.  . 

"An  intelligent  understanding  of  insanity  requires  a  more  or  less 
intimate  comprehension  of  the  great  subject  of  human  development 
and  progress.  The  history  of  civilization  throws  much  light  upon 
insanity.  In  tracing  its  progress,  which  in  its  course  has  uplifted 
mankind  and  steadily  developed  human  possibilities,  we  find  in  every 
age  there  have  been  those  who  have  fallen  out  by  the  way,  or  gone 
into  blind  paths  which  lead  to  silent  resting  places.  The  track  of 
civilization  is  studded  with  fossil  deposits  of  human  kind. 

"There  is  always  a  process  of  elimination  accompanying  the 
course  of  civilization,  which  conduces  to  the  ultimate  advancement 
of  the  race.  There  are  deteriorating  families  which,  after  the  lapse 
of  a  few  generations,  cease  to  play  their  part  and  become  fossilized, 
while  the  living  mass  moves  on.  A  careful  survey  of  mankind  at 
the  present  time  will  afford  abundant  evidence  of  this  view.  Not 
only  will  we  discover  individual  families  who  have  dwindled  down 
to  a  few^  single  representatives,  by  reason  of  the  vices  of  ancestors 
that  have  become  constitutional  in  their  descendants,  until  their 
accumulated  weaknesses  become  incompatible  with  the  continuance 
of  a  healthy  manhood,  and  terminate  in  physical  infirmities  and  men- 
tal imbecility.  That  such  is  the  origin,  course  and  character  of  a 
certain  proportion  of  the  insanity  of  our  time,  is  certain. 

"We  may  go  further  still  in  this  view  and  not  go  far  wrong. 
Outside  the  domain  of  recognized  insanity  there  is  much  actual 
mental  unsoundness.  The  humanitarian  who  directs  his  attention 
to  the  different  families  of  dependents  upon  public  bounty,  will  find 
little  difficulty  in  recognizing  whole  classes  who  represent  the 
waning  phases  of"  mentality.  If  he  visits  the  almshouses  or 
eleemosynary  public  institutions,  he  is  struck  with  the  weakness  and 
incapacity  prevailing  among  the  inmates,  still  more  strikingly  evident 
in  the  family  histories  he  investigates,  which  are  a  mingled  record  of 
thriftlessness,  want  of  moral  sense,  petty  dissipations  and  vices,  all 
the  outcome  of  chronic  constitutional  qualities.  If  he  visits  the 
reformatories  and  prisons  he  will  recognize  a  somewhat  different 
type  of  mentality,  still  a  distinctive  one,  which  likewise  is  connected 
with  a  preceding  line  of  erratic  ancestry.  More  intellectual  capacity 
will  be  found  to  characterize  criminal  psychology,  but  this  is 
associated  with  such  perversions  or  absence  of  moral  sense  as 
renders  the  possession  of  intellectual  power  all  the  more  dangerous. 


242  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

"  In  many  respects  the  lines  of  pauperism,  criminality  and 
insanity  run  parallel  with  each  other,  and  are  so  interwoven  with  each 
other  as  to  be  often  inseparable  ;  certain  it  is  that  many  of  the 
former  class  drift  helplessly  into  the  latter,  and  representatives 
of  each  are  always  to  be  found  in  asylums.  This  kind  of  insanity 
is  very  unfavorable  for  recovery,  or  permanent  improvement.  It  is 
too  intimately  ingrained  in  the  individual.  It  is  not  so  much  a 
morbid  state  that  has  come  upon  him  as  a  disease,  as  a  development 
of  his  natural  tendencies,  leading  through  various  erratic  phases  to 
ultimate  dementia.  The  notable  feature  of  these  cases  is  the 
exaggeration  of  natural  traits,  rather  than  the  more  or  less  complete 
reversal  of  normal  characteristics,  which  is  observed  in  insanity 
from  extraneous  causes.  A  naturally  weak  individual,  never 
endowed  with  the  average  'amount  of  cerebral  energy,  slowly, 
but  almost  inevitably,  drifts  into  a  state  of  dementia  and  becomes 
a  dependent  upon  public  charity.  The  fault  is  less  that  of  the 
individual  himself,  than  of  his  progenitors.  If  he  lacks  the  ambitions 
and  thrift  common  to  others,  it  is  rather  because  he  is  wanting  in 
that  innate  power  which  is  the  foundation  of  a  healthful  activity.  It 
is  an  error  to  suppose  an  imbecile  less  liable  to  the  supervention  of 
ordinary  insanity  than  those  of  average  capacity. 

**  It  is  not  unusual  in  the  experience  of  asylums  to  see  true  mania 
engrafted  upon  imbecility,  and  recovery  take  place  from  this 
secondary  complication ;  but  exemption  from  recurrences  is  less 
hopeful  than  in  those  of  average  endowments,  and  the  progress 
of  such  a  case  towards  dementia  is  usually  more  rapid,  by  reason  of 
less  power  of  resistance. 

"  In  the  insanity  of  the  criminal  classes  we  see  derangement 
most  largely  in  the  direction  of  their  natural  tendencies.  They 
become  less  changed  than  exaggerated  in  their  dominant  peculiar- 
ities. In  childhood  vicious,  in  youth  artful,  imrfioral  and  engaged 
in  schemes  of  dishonesty  or  villainy,  and  living  without  visible 
means  of  support,  or  any  recognized  calling.  This  irregular  life 
gradually  becomes  one  of  recklessness  and  settled  dissipations, 
in  which  all  power  of  self  control  becomes  lost  and  actual  insanity 
supervenes  ;  in  which  the  dominant  pa.ssions  play  their  part  no 
longer  with  method,  but  in  obedience  to  any  impulse  or  transient 
incentive  that  may  arise,  or  to  hallucinations  of  sense  that  have 
developed  as  the  outgrowth  of  their  vicious  lives. 

"Public  hospitals  for  the  insane  shelter  the  representatives  of 
both  these  classes.  Those  of  aimless  lives,  by  reason  of  constitu- 
tional weaknesses,  are  at  last  arrested  in  their  vagrant  wanderings 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  i879-'8o.  243 

and  find  a  home  in  asylums,  which  afford  them  better  sanitary 
surroundings  and  hygienic  conditions  than  they  have  ever  before 
been  able  to  provide  for  themselves,  or  known.  And  the  same 
humanity  which  recognizes  and  provides  for  these  weak  ones,  like- 
wise extends  the  helping  hand  to  those  who  have  been  offenders 
of  the  laws,  but  upon  whom  has  fallen  the  heavy  affliction  of 
insanity.  The  philanthropy  that  moves  in  all  these  cases  is  the  true 
sort,  but  some  questions  need  to  be  further  considered  in  respect  to 
the  latter  classes. 

"  If  there  is  reason  for  separating  those  of  bad  lives  from  their 
fellows  in  health,  ought  not  that  separation  still  to  be  maintained  in 
event  of  the  visitation  of  insanity,  provided  that  the  resources  of 
the  healing  art  be  afforded  them  according  to  the  best  light  of 
the  time  ?  The  influence  of  the  general  tenor  of  an  individual  life 
is  always  to  a  certain  extent  felt,  despite  the  mental  disorder  that 
may  have  have  supervened  ;  and  there  is  a  certain  manifest  injustice 
felt  by  every  one  who  reflects  upon  the  matter,  in  the  forced  associ- 
ation of  the  criminal  with  the  non-criminal  insane,  and  which  those 
in  charge  of  asylums  feel  obliged  to  modify  by  separate  classification 
or  isolation. 

"  The  representatives  of  these  types  of  insanity  are  hardly  free 
agents  from  the  time  they  reach  a  responsible  age,  till  they  pass 
beyond  earthly  responsibility.  Their  mental  organization  contains 
so  many  and  so  fixed  crooks,  that  they  are  governed  by  natural 
predispositions,  rather  than  influenced  by  the  motives  and  incentives 
surrounding  them,  and  those  principles  which  move  the  masses 
generally.  The  mere  fact  of  insanity  having  existed  in  some 
branches  of  one's  family,  or  even  in  one's  immediate  progenitors, 
does  not  give  in  all  cases  a  pronounced  hereditary  character  to  the 
insanity  of  an  indivdual  though  it  is  alwa)^s  a  fact  significant,  and 
one  to  be  studied  in  its  bearing  upon  a  case.  Sometimes  it  may 
have  been  the  result  of  an  accidental  cause,  and  may  have  occurred 
in  the  progenitor  long  after  the  birth  of  his  children,  in  which  case 
it  would  have  little  bearing  upon  the  insanity  of  the  latter.  In  many 
cases  it  may  doubtless  be  found  to  amount  to  little  more  than  a  dor- 
mant tendency  which  may  render  exciting  causes  somewhat  more 
potent  in  the  production  of  insanity.  True  heredity,  in  the  practical 
sense,  applies  rather  to  those  cases  in  which  qualities  of  organization 
instead  of  mere  tendencies  are  stamped  upon  the  individual,  and 
such  are  not  apparent  in  all  cases  in  which  insane  members  may  be 
genealogically  traced.  A  disease  so  frequent  as  insanity,  and 
increasing  rather  than  diminishing,  with  an  advancing  civilization, 


244  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

well  deserves  the  most  careful  investigation  of  its  causes.  While  it 
may  be  admitted  that  its  increase  may  to  some  extent  be  more 
apparent  than  real,  nevertheless  its  glaring  prominence  in  the  face 
of  increasing  light  in  the  direction  of  the  laws  of  life,  is  a  fact  not 
readily  harmonized  with  human  progress. 

"  It  must  be  admitted  that  the  term  insanity  is  a  very  compre- 
hensive one,  and  the  tendency  of  modern  thought  has  been  to  widen 
its  application.  In  its  legal  signification  it  includes  every  form 
of  mental  defect,  whether  congenital,  or  of  subsequent  development. 
In  the  earlier  ages  of  civilization,  only  the  most  demonstrative  forms 
of  insanity  were  recognized  ;  subsequent  light  has  developed  to 
view  more  subtle  phases,  and  even  very  nice  shades  of  mental 
unsoundness,  all  of  which  fall  under  the  general  term,  and  have 
come  to  bear  upon  the  social  status  and  the  civil  condition  of  the 
individual.  By  reason,  therefore,  of  the  increasing  comprehen- 
siveness of  the  subject,  the  remote  predisposing  causes  become 
more  and  more  questions  for  study,  and  no  case  can  be  thoroughly 
well  understood  without  the  light  that  may  be  thrown  upon  it  from 
the  family  history. 

"In  the  analysis  of  those  admitted  to  the  Asylum  in  the  two 
years  past  we  have  not  contented  ourselves  with  recording  only  the 
single  dominant  cause,  but  have  allowed  all  known  agencies  to  count 
upon  the  result.  This  method  was  adopted  two  years  ago.  Twenty- 
eight  causes  have  been  credited  with  contributing  to  the  insanity  of 
those  admitted  in  the  last  biennial  period. 

"  Hereditary  tendency  was  traceable  in  eighty  of  the  one  hundred 
and  seventy-seven  cases,  or  fifty-five  per  cent  of  all  whose  histories 
were  ascertained.  Self-abuse,  intemperance,  and  excesses  of  various 
kinds,  contributed  to  the  development  of  about  twenty-five  per  cent. 
Diseases  or  injuries  of  the  nervous  centers,  complicated  about 
fifteen  per  cent.  Nervous  exhaustion,  overwork,  over-study,  gen- 
eral ill  health,  and  diseases  common  to  both  sexes  were  assigned 
as  causes  in  about  twenty-three  per  cent.  Diseases  peculiar  to 
females  figured  in  about  twenty-eight  per  cent  of  the  ascertained 
cases  of  women. 

"  Moral  causes  seem  to  have  been  more  or  less  operative  in 
about  thirty  per  cent,  of  all  whose  histories  were  learned,  and  those 
of  a  domestic  nature,  involving  the  affections,  seem  to  have  been 
about  twice  as  frequent  as  those  of  a  business  kind,  including  also 
excitements  of  a  religious  or  political  character." 

There  were  four  hundred  and  forty-seven  patients  in  the  Asylum 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  iSyg-'So.  245 

August  ist,  1880;  one  hundred  and  seventy-seven  having  been 
received,  and  one  hundred  and  eighty-nine  discharged,  during  the 
biennial  term. 

The  receipts  for  the  two  years  were,  $168,493.28 

The  expenditures,  168,352.06 


Leaving  on  hand,  $141,22 

The  cost  of  the  radical  changes  in  the  plan  of  the  buildings 
as  detailed  in  the  record  of  1879,  was  $4,853.00. 

At  the  October  meeting,  the  Board  took  under  consideration 
a  proposal  to  straighten  and  establish  a  line  at  the  northeast 
corner  of  the  meadow,  between  lands  of  the  Asylum  and 
Dorman  B.  Eaton,  and  it  was  voted  to  adopt  a  line  as  surveyed  by 
Geo.  H.  Clark  (surveyor),  and  James  M.  Tyler  was  appointed 
by  vote  of  the  Board  to  draft  and  execute  a  proper  instrument  on 
the  part  of  the  corporation  for  the  establishment  of  said  line,  which 
was  done  under  date  of  October  15th,  1880,  and  duly  recorded  in 
the  office  of  the  town  clerk. 

In  the  autumn  of  this  year  Mr.  E.  W.  Bowditch  of  Boston,  a 
landscape  gardener,  was  employed  to  make  a  careful  survey  and 
plan  of  the  proposed  new  park,  and  lay  out  upon  the  same  walks 
and  other  desirable  features  for  its  new  uses,  for  practical  guidance 
in  the  work  of  development.  This  was  very  carefully  done,  and 
subsequent  work  has  followed  it  with  very  few  deviations. 

The  Report  of  the  newly  created  State  Board  of  Supervisors  of 
the  Insane,  for  the  biennial  period,  was  an  endorsement  of  the 
management  of  the  Asylum. 

Concerning  that  part  of  their  duty  by  which  they  were  authorized 
to  order  the  removal  of  persons  who  ought  to  be  discharged,  they 
thus  speak  :  • 

"  Only  four  patients  have  been  discharged  during  the  past  two 
years  by  the  advice  or  direction  of  the  supervisors,  three  of  which 
were  demented  and  harmless,  and  one  of  these  only  upon  sufficient 
assurance  that  the  patient  should  be  properly  cared  for.  We  found 
but  three  persons  (one  since  deceased)  not  insane  according  to  the 
general  acceptance  of  the  term  insanity,  and  ''these  three  were 
demented  State  paupers,  and  were  committed  under  the  orders  of 
probate  courts.  We  are  satisfied  there  is  no  place  where  this  class 
are  better  cared  for  than  at  the  Asylum.  From  quite  careful 
observation  we  believe  there  is  no  disposition  on  the  part  of  the 
superintendent  to  detain  patients  when  he  is  convinced  that  it  is  for 


246  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

their  best  good  to  be  set  at  liberty.  We  are  pleased  to  report  that 
the  Trustees  and  superintendent  are  endeavoring  to  make  the 
Asylum  more  distinctively  a  State  institution,  and  to  that  end  are 
discharging  patients  from  without  the  State  for  the  purpose  of 
making  room  for  State  patients." 


RECORD  OF  1881-2. 


ASPECIi\L  meeting  of  the  Board  was  called  May  20th,   1881, 
and   the  request  of  the  superintendent  for  three   months' 
leave  of  absence  from  the  middle  of  June,  to  enable  him  to 
take  a  trip  to  Europe,  was  granted. 

June  4th,  Trustees  met,  full  board  being  present ;  and  visited  the 
wards  of  the  Asylum  and  domestic  departments,  discussed  plans  for 
work,  and  decided  to  build  a  root  cellar  at  the  farm-house  barn,  and 
to  replace  the  wooden  fence  between  the  two  north  sections  of 
the  west  wing,  with  a  brick  connecting  wall ;  also  discussed 
arrangements  for  internal  administration  during  the  absence  of  the 
superintendent,  and  directed  the  securing  of  some  young  physician 
as  a  third  assistant.  Dr.  Shailer  E.  Lawton  was  secured  for  this 
position.  By  reason  of  the  absence  of  the  superintendent  the 
annual  election  of  officers  was  postponed  from  August  to  October, 
when  those  of  last  year  were  re-elected,  without  change. 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Frederick  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
Frederick  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 

J.  M.  Clark,  ist  Assistant  Physician. 

O.  W.  Phelps,  2nd  Assistant  Physician. 

Mary  Draper  Phelps,  Matron. 

P.  C.  Spencer,  Steward. 

Asa  Gilkey,  Farmer. 

At  this  meeting  the  superintendent  brought    before  the  Board 

a   proposition  for  the  purchase  of    the   Miles  school  property,  an 

establishment  situated  about  a  mile  distant  from  the  Asylum,  for  the 

purpose  of  fitting  it  up  as  a  summer  retreat,  after   the  manner  of 


248  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

some  connected  with  similar  institutions  in  England  and  Scotland, 
whereby  certain  classes  of  patients  might  enjoy,  a  change  in  the 
yearly  routine  of  asylum  life,  such  as  well  people  are  accustomed  to 
seek  and  take  each  year,  if  it  can  be  afforded. 

The  proposition  met  with  immediate  favor ;  and  Dr.  Rockwell 
was  authorized  by  vote  of  the  Board  to  negotiate  for  the  purchase 
of  the  property,  if  practicable,  at  a  cost  not  exceeding  $7,500. 

At  the  November  meeting  the  Trustees  confirmed  the  negotia- 
tions of  Dr.  Rockwell  for  the  Miles  place,  at  the  sum  stated  at  the 
previous  meeting.     (Deed  executed  November  12th,  '81.) 

In  the  spring  of  1882  the  Trustees  secured  a  plateau  of  six  acres 
of  land  on  the  Putney  road  immediately  above  and  adjoining  the 
garden  plateau,  known  as  the'  Waite  lot,  for  the  sum  of  $2,400. 
This  purchase  was  made  by  the  superintendent  the  preceding  year 
under  the  direction  of  the  Trustees,  and  after  the  straightening  of  the 
line  upon  the  side  next  Dorman  B.  Eaton,  was  turned  over  to  the 
Asylum  by  deed,  dated  April  ist,  1882. 

In  May  the  Trustees,  'at  their  regular  meeting,  determined  upon 
the  amount  of  land  that  should  be  included  about  the  Summer 
Retreat  for  its  grounds,  and  directed  a  paling  fence  to  be  erected 
upon  the  side  next  the  farm,  and  decided  to  remove  all  that 
bordering  upon  the  roadside.  In  remodeling  the  buildings  they 
decided  to  raise  up  the  front  portion,  so  as  to  bring  the  floor  levels 
of  this  upon  the  same  plane  with  those  of  the  wing,  and  to  build 
a  veranda  10  feet  wide  entirely  around  the  whole,  making  something 
more  than  500  feet  in  length. 

At  the  annual  meeting  the  following  officers  were  duly  elected  : 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Fred'k  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
Fred'k  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 
*S.  E.  Lawton,  1st  Assistant  Physician. 
Edward  French,  2d  Assistant  Physician. 

,  Matron. 

P.  C.  Spencer,  Steward. 
Asa  (iilkey.  Farmer. 
*The  change  in  assistant  physicians  was  made  in  April   1882.      Both  the  out- 
going officials  had  i)een  several  years  in  service,  and  left  to  engage  in  other  fields  of 
usefulness. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   i88i-'82.  249 

The  office  of  matron,  made  vacant  by  the   retirement  of  Mrs. 
Phelps,  was  not  filled  at  this  election  ;  no  applicant  with  the  neces- 
sary qualifications  and  experience  being  at  this  time  available. 
The  receipts  of  the  biennial  period  were,  $180,381.43 

The  expenditures,  179,791.52 


Leaving  on  hand,  $589.91 

The  Trustees  in  their  Report  call  especi.il  attention  to  the  newly 
inaugurated  departures  already  noted,  and  especially  to  the  greatly 
enlarged  territory  now  appropriated  to  pleasure  purposes,  as  follows: 

"  There  are  twenty  acres  of  grounds  connected  with  the  newly 
acquired  property,  and  thirty  acres  embraced  in  the  new  park,  v/hich 
added  to  the  twenty  upon  the  plateau  of  the  main  buildings,  will 
ultimately  give  seventy  acres  of  pleasure  grounds.  These  extensions 
of  facilities  for  the  treatment  of  the  inmates  have  been  entered  upon 
in  pursuance  of  the  settled  and  uniform  policy  of  the  Trustees  in 
making  such  advances  from  year  to  year  and  time  to  time  as  the 
means  at  their  disposal  may  warrant,  and  with  full  faith  in  the  advan- 
tages sure  to  accrue  from  these  added  provisions." 

The  movement  of  population,  as  shown  by  the  Superintendent  in 
the  biennial  period  is  as  follows  : 

One  hundred  and  eighty-eight  admitted,  one  hundred  and  ninety- 
four  discharged,  and  four  hundretl  and  forty-one  remaining.  The 
new  features  about  to  be  incorporated  into  the  Asylum  as  permanent 
additions  to  its  facilities  for  treatment  are  thus  explicitly  set  forth. 

The   New  Park. 

"  Two  years  ago  the  laying  out  of  a  new  road  by  the  town  author- 
ities, separated  a  tract  of  thirty  acres  from  the  farm  proper,  and  left 
in  immediate  connection  with  the  Asylum  upon  the  west  side  of  the 
road,  a  broken  hill-side,  its  summit  two  hundred  and  fifty  feet  above 
the  plateau  on  which  the  buildings  stand.  The  top  of  this  is  wooded 
and  rocky,  but  from  many  points  beautiful  views  are  obtained,  and 
delightful  shade  with  free  breezes,  which  are  every  day  enjoyed  by 
the  patients  to  whom  it  is  already  devoted.  Near  a  mile  of  walk 
has  been  already  made,  and  a  plateau  graded  for  games,  the  whole 
in  accordance  with  the  plan  of  a  competent  landscape  gardener,  by 
whom  the  same  has  been  accurately  surveyed  and  laid  out.  The 
completion  of  this  will  be  the  work  of  years,  but  it  will  eventually  be 
one  of  the  most  attractive  features  of  the  place." 


250  ANNALS   OF   THE  VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

The  Summer  Retreat. 

"  This,  so  far  as  we  are  aware,  is  the  first  departure  in  this  direc- 
tion in  the  United  States.  It  is  not  an  extension  of  the  capacity  of 
the  Institution,  but  an  added  provision,  calculated,  we  believe,  to 
enhance  the  benefits  of  treatment.  It  is  a  movement  in  the  interest 
of  the  inmates,  and  it  will  necessarily  add  materially  to  the  current 
expense  account ;  secondarily,  we  think  it  will  likewise  benefit  the 
Institution  by  increasing  its  curative  results.  The  practical  working 
of  this  adjunct  to  existing  hospital  advantages  was  observed  by  the 
writer  in  connection  with  some  of  the  best  English  and  Scottish 
asylums,  in  the  summer  of  1881.  The  testimony  of  the  superintend- 
ents of  the  British  institutions  where  the  experiment  has  been  tried, 
was  uniform  and  outspoken  in  its  favor,  and  its  advantages  so  well 
recognized  that  some  asylums  have  leased  ordinary  houses  or  cot- 
tages by  the  sea,  or  in  the  mountains,  for  use  in  the  summer  months 
by  such  inmates  as  could  be  sufficiently  trusted,  and  needed  such 
change.  In  this  country  the  capacity  of  some  hospitals  has  been 
increased  by  the  occupancy  of  cottages  or  detached  buildings,  but  it 
is  not  this  that  is  here  proposed.  We  wish  this  point  to  be  particu- 
larly noted.  *  *  *  *  Yhe  capacity  of  this  establishment  will 
be  for  a  family  of  twenty  or  twenty-five  inmates,  including  the  neces- 
sary numb'er  of  attendants,  and  there  will  be  little  in  the  nature  of 
restraint  connected  with  the  arrangements  of  the  building.  Its  design 
is  to  afford  to  the  inmates  of  the  Asylum  that  change  from  a  weari- 
some routine  that  is  universally  recognized  as  essential,  and  where  a 
family  of  twenty  or  more  inmates  may,  in  the  hot  season,  find  that 
rest  which  cannot  but  be  as  beneficial  as  desirable.  That  it  will 
hasten  and  confirm  convalescence  in  those  who  are  recovering  can 
hardly  be  doubted,  and  to  all  capable  of  appreciating  the  change  it 
will  be  a  happy  relief  from  the  routine  of  asylum  life.  It  is  believed 
that  the  best  results  will  be  realized  by  utilizing  it  in  rotation  by  suc- 
cessive groups  of  patients,  for  two,  three  or  four  weeks  together." 

An  inaugural  trial  of  this  new  summer  retreat  was  made  from  the 
2 2d  of  September  to  the  7th  of  October  inclusive.  Sixteen  patients, 
with  a  chief  attendant  and  three  assistants,  constituted,  the  family, 
apart  from  the  man  and  wife  in  charge  of  the  domestic  department. 

The  amount  expended  in  remodelling  and  furnishing  this  estab- 
lishment was  $6,500. 

In  the  autumn  of  this  year  granite  gate  posts  at  all  the  entrances 
to  the  grounds  of  the  main  Asylum  were  set,  the  sidewalk  raised  and 
graded,  and  the  brick  connecting  wall,  with  granite  foundation  and 
coping,  between  the  two  north  sections  of  the  west  wing  (determined 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  i88i-'82.  251 

upon  June,  '81),  was  built,  separating  the  court  within  from  the  prin- 
cipal one  of  entrance  for  carriages  without.  Upon  the  inner  side  of 
the  enclosed  court  was  projected  a  veranda  about  one  hundred  feet 
long  and  ten  feet  wide  around  two  sides,  supported  by  posts  twelve 
feet  high  upon  a  granite  curbing,  the  floor  being  filled  in  solidly  with 
earth  and  covered  and  finished  with  Portland  ceme-nt ;  the  same 
being  designed  for  the  exercise  of  excited  male  patients  in  winter 
or  wet  weather,  thus  converting  to  permanent  use  a  previously  use- 
less enclosure. 

At  the  same  time  a  similar  structure  was  extended  eastward  from 
the  extreme  wing  of  the  female  department  along  the  front  line  of 
the  airing  court  for  the  excited  class  of  female  patients,  its  ridge  line 
forming  the  division  wall,  and  the  roof  being  projected  upon 
both  the  inner  and  the  outer  side  of  the  court,  supported  by  posts 
ten  feet  high  resting  upon  granite  curbing,  the  floor  being  filled  and 
cemented  as  already  described.  By  this  substantial  construction,  a 
permanent  open  air  sheltered  promenade  was  secured,  the  side  bor- 
dering the  inner  court  for  the  use  of  the  excited  in  any  weather,  and 
that  upon  the  outer  side  looking  upon  the  garden  and  grounds, 
affording  in  winter  a  sunny  side,  and  in  summer  a  sufficient  protec- 
tion to  be  in  both  seasons  a  favorite  resort. 


RECORD   OF    1883-4. 


THE  work  detailed  in  last  year's  record  was  resumed  as  early  as 
possible  in  the  spring,  and  completed  by  the  extension  of  a 
veranda,  identical  in  plan,  at  right  angles  to  that  already 
described,  and  surrounding  the  inner  court  of  the  east  wing  upon 
two  sides,  making  about  one  hundred  and  seventy-five  feet  alto- 
gether of  sheltered  promenade.  The  last  extension,  by  reason  of 
the  slope  of  the  ground  from  the  buildings,  allowed  the  construction 
of  a  basement  story  beneath  for  the  use  of  the  gardener  in  which  to 
keep  garden  tools,  and  store  the  vases,  lawn-settees,  etc.,  in  winter. 
The  veranda  floor  of  this  last  extension  was  made  of  wood  and 
formed  the  ceiling  of  the  room  below.  This  work  was  all  completed 
in  June  of  this  year.  The  cost  of  these  permanent  improvements 
was  $3,650. 

At  the  April  meeting  of  the  Board,  1883,  the  question  of  a  recon- 
struction of  the  chapel  was  opened,  and  the  superintendent  was 
directed  to  communicate  with  an  architect  and  obtain  his  opinion  as 
to  what  would  be  practicable  in  the  matter. 

May  1 8th,  the  Trustees  met  to  consider  the  plan  of  the  architect 
for  improving  the  chapel,  and  directed  other  plans  to  be  submitted 
for  comparison,  before  adopting  any. 

July  5th,  the  Trustees  voted^  To  adopt  the  plan  submitted  by  Mr. 
Geo.  D.  Rand  of  Boston  ;  and  on  the  nth  of  the  month,  at  a  confer- 
ence with  him  in  respect  to  supervising  the  work,  determined  that  a 
competent  man  should  be  engaged  to  raise  the  roof,  and  that  the 
remainder  of  the  work  be  done  by  the  day  under  a  foreman  and  the 
general  superintendence  of  the  architect.  The  plan  adopted  changed 
the  pitch  of  the  roof  by  opening  the  ridge  line  and  carrying  up  each 
side  to  a  point  eight  feet  higher  than  before,  and  building  out  there- 
from at  the  central  point  large  dormers  one-third  the  length  of  the 
building,  and  surmounting  the  whole  with  a  ventilating  cupola  eight 
feet  square  with  pyramidal  roof.  Interiorly  the  roof  was  supported 
longitudinally,  on  semi-circular  arches,  four  in  number,  giving  a 
height  of  twenty  feet  from  the  floor  in  the  clear.  The  dormers  were 
supported  likewise  by  arches  transverse  to  the  main  ones,  and  fifteen 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEARS    i883-'84.  253 

feet  in  height.  The  interior  was  thus  broken  into  a  main  audience 
room  with  transepts,'  having  a  long  diameter  of  about  seventy  feet, 
and  a  transverse  one  of  about  fifty  feet.  The  space  between  the 
arches  was  finished  in  panels  on  the  slant  of  the  roof,  but  leaving  an 
air  space  between  ceiling  and  roof,  by  which  increased  facilities  for 
the  ventilation  of  rooms  below  were  gained  by  direct  communication 
with  the  cupola. 

No  changes  were  made  in  the  corps  of  officers  at  the  annual 
meeting  this  year.     Those  of  1882  were  all  re-elected  : 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Fred'k  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
Fred'k  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 

S.  E.  Lawton,  ist  Assistant  Physician. 

Edward  French,  2d  Assistant  Physician. 

,  Matron. 

P.  C.  Spencer,  Steward. 

Asa  Gilkey,  Farmer. 
It  was  Voted,  To  purchase  an  extension  to  the  park  if  practicable, 
and  Dr.  Rockwell  and  Mr.  Tyler  were  elected  a  committee  to  nego- 
tiate for  and  purchase  the  same. 

At  the  December  meeting  the  office  of  matron,  which  had  been 
vacant  since  August,  1882,  was  filled  by  the  advancement  to  that 
position  of  Miss  H.  E.  B.  Gibson,  who,  for  five  years  preceding,  had 
rendered  acceptable  service  in  a  position  qualifying  her  for  the  duties 
to  which  she  was  now  elected. 

Work  upon  the  chapel  began  in  September,  1883,  and  continued 
till  March,  1884.  The  cost  of  this  improvement,  together  with 
changes  involved  in  the  third  story  of  the  center  building,  was 
$7,500. 

On  the  loth  of  May  a  purchase  was  effected  of  2  3-16  acres  of 
land  contiguous  to  the  park,  of  Joseph  Prescott,  for  $700.  This 
made  a  straight  boundary  line  between  the  Asylum  Park  and  that  of 
Mr.  Crowell,  from  Cedar  street  on  the  West  nearly  to  Chase  street 
upon  the  East,  and  included  a  very  desirable  point  of  view,  from 
which  all  the  village,  from  Cemetery  Hill  on  the  South  to  the  West 
River  on  the  North,  with  the  mountain  on  the  New  Hampshire  side 
of  the  Connecticut  River,  is  embraced  in  the  outlook. 


254  ANNALS    OF    THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

The  Report  of  the  Trustees  called  particular  attention  to  the 
lessening  of  the  average  number  of  inmates,  due  to  the  removal  by 
the  State  authorities  of  harmless  chronic  cases,  which  to  a  certain 
extent  had  diminished  the  insane  of  the  Asylum,  and  especially  to 
the  lessening  of  the  number  of  self-supporting  cases,  and  increase  of 
the  number  supported  by  towns,  by  which  the  receipts  upon  which 
the  Institution  solely  depends  had  been  still  further  decreased,  and 
asked  an  additional  allowance  of  fifty  cents  per  week  for  those  aided 
or  supported  by  the  State.  The  suggestion  that  the  criminal  class 
have  provision  made  for  them  in  connection  with  one  of  the  penal 
institutions  of  the  State  was  also  once  more  urged,  for  the  reasons 
fully  set  forth  in  1878. 

This  second  appeal,  it  may  be  stated  in  this  connection,  did  not 
avail  anything  ;  but  the  request  for  additional  allowance  for  those 
supported  at  public  expense  was  responded  to  by  an  increase  in  the 
rate,   of  twenty-five  cents  a  week,  by  an  Act  approved  Nov.  26,  '84. 

The  Superintendent's  Report  shows  one  hundred  and  eighty-six 
admissions,  and  one  hundred  and  ninety  discharges,  in  the  last  bien- 
nial period,  leaving  four  hundred  and  thirty-seven  in  the  Asylum  at 
date  of  this  Report. 

Open  Air  Treatment  of  the  Insane  is  especially  dwelt  upon,  as 
follows  : 

"  We  can  safely  say  that  in  the  past  two  years  we  have,  more  than 
ever  before,  made  open  air  exercise  prominent  in  the  treatment  of 
the  cases  committed  to  our  care.  We  believe  much  in  its  curative 
as  well  as  tranquilizing  influence.  We  go  even  further,  and  are  dis- 
posed to  regard  fresh  air  exercise  in  the  treatment  of  maniacal  cases 
of  the  sthenic  type,  as  essential  as  the  use  of  water  in  the  febrile 
state.  It  is  a  natural  craving  of  the  patient  in  both  cases,  and  ought 
to  be  indulged  and  afforded  at  least  to  a  judicious  amount.". 

The  new  park,  as  a  means  of  affording  increased  privileges  in 
this  regard,  is  especially  rejoiced  in  ;  also  the  Summer  Retreat,  con- 
cerning which  the  following  statement  is  made  : 

"The  practical  working  of  this  newly  created  adjunct  has  been 
all  that  we  anticipated.  We  have  sixteen  rooms  furnished  singly, 
and  these  have  all  been  kept  full.  A  chief  attendant  and  two  assist- 
ants have  proved  equal  to  the  charge  of  this  number.  The  suites  of 
apartments  designed  for  those  who  desire  special  attendants  have 
not  yet  been  furnished,  but  will  be  at  any  time  when  occasion 
demands  their  use.  The  public  rooms,  consisting  of  a  parlor  and 
library  connected,  and  a  recreation  room  twenty  by  thirty  feet,  fur- 
nished with  a  parlor  organ  and  table  games,  are  all  upon  the  lower 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   i883-'84.  255 

floor ;  the  sleeping  rooms  above.  No  doors  are  locked  in  the  day- 
time, and  only  such  at  night  as  would  be  considered  essential  to  the 
ordinary  safety  of  a  sane  family.  The  absolute  unrestricted  freedom 
of  the  grounds  is  enjoyed  by  the  household,  and  in  addition  to  this, 
walking  groups  are  daily  made  up  for  a  ramble  in  the  adjacent  fields, 
or  to  some  of  the  surrounding  points. of  view,  to  one  of  which  a  path 
has  been  extended  and  seats  placed,  beneath  a  pine  grove  crowning 
the  summit  of  a  hill  which  commands  to  still  better  advantage  the 
scene  already  described,  stretching  eastward  from  the  front  of  the 
buildings  across  the  Connecticut  Valley." 

The   abstract  of  receipts  and   expenditures  for  the  two  years, 
shows  receipts,  $178,247.21 

Disbursements,  178,214.10 


Leaving  a  balance  of,  $33- n 

The  election  of  officers  resulted  as  follows  : 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  BOARD. 

Fred'k  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
W.  H.  Rockwell,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
Fred'k  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 

S.  E.  Lawton,  ist  Assistant  Physician. 

L.  F.  Wentworth,  2d  Assistant  Physician. 

H.  E.  B.  Gibson,  Matron. 

P.  C.  Spencer,  Steward. 

Asa  Gilkey,  Farmer. 
At  the  September  meeting  of  the  Trustees,  they  considered  the 
proposition  for  protecting  the  grave  of  the  founder  of  the  Asylum, 
Mrs.  Marsh,  (now  in  a  neglected  and  abandoned  cemetery),  and 
appointed  Mr.  Tyler  and  the  superintendent  a  committee  to  ascer- 
tain what  was  practicable,  and  report  at  a  future  meeting.  At  the 
meeting  in  October  plans  were  debated  for  the  re-arrangerrienjt  of  the 
farm  buildings  and  removal  of  the  piggery  thereto,  also  for  further 
and  more  radically  improving  the  sewerage. 


RECORD  OF   18856. 


AT  the  monthly  meeting  in  April,  18^5,  it  was  Voted^  "To  con- 
struct the  system  of  sewerage  outside  the  buildings  anew  to 
the  foot  of  the  bank,  and  to  abandon  the  old  drains  whenever 
the  new  connections  are  made  ;  also,  to  reconstruct  that  portion  of 
the  engine  house  which  has  cracked  and  settled  by  reason  of  defect- 
ive foundation,  and  rearrange  the  boilers  upon  the  west  side  of  the 
boiler  room,  where  more  secure  foundation  for  them  may  be 
obtained."  The  new  sewer  was  laid  in  accordance  with  a  plan  sug- 
gested by  Mr.  E.  S.  Philbrick,  sanitary  engineer,  Boston,  of  Akron 
pipe,  eight  inch  main  and  six  inch  branches,  with  traps  just  outside 
the  buildings,  ventilated  through  the  soil  pipes  above  the  roofs,  and 
with  man-holes  at  these,  and  at  every  angle  in  their  course,  the  joints 
being  made  close  by  cement  and  rings,  or  by  bricks  laid  solidly 
around  the  joints  in  cement.  The  working  of  this  has  been  perfect, 
and  was  accomplished  at  a  cost  of  $2200. 

The  work  in  connection  with  the  boiler  house  was  likewise  satis- 
factorily completed  according  to  the  plan,  at  aii  outlay  of  $4,500. 

The  following  is  the  result  of  the  annual  election,  1885  : 

OFFICERS  OF  THE    BOARD. 

Fred'k  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
J.  M.  Tyler,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
F.  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT  OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 
•      S.  E.  Lawton,  ist  Assistant  Physician. 
W.  E.  Bowie,  2d  Assistant  Physician. 
H.  E.  B.  Gibson,  Matron. 
P.  C.  Spencer,  Steward. 
Asa  Gilkey,  Farmer. 
Cupolas  upon  the  wings,  three  on  each  side  of  the  center  build- 
ing, and  one  upon  the  Marsh  Building,  were  also  this  year  added  for 
architectural  effect  and  for  ventilating  purposes,  at  a  cost  of  $300. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS   i885-'86.  257 

At  the  December  meeting,  '85,  the  Trustees  considered  the  mat- 
ter of  the  Willoughby  Legacy,  the  annuity  from  which  had  been 
suspended  for  five  years  past  by  reason  of  mismanagement  and 
involvement  of  the  funds,  resulting  in  permanent  reduction  of  the 
income, — and  Voted^  "  To  accept  the  same  proportionally  with  the 
Protestant  Episcopal  Institute  at  Burlington,  co-legatee,  and  waive 
right  of  priority  of  mention  in  the  will,  under  existing  circum- 
stances." 

At  the  first  meeting  of  the  Trustees  in  1886  (Jan.  12,)  it  was 
Fo^ed,  "To  repair,  reconstruct,  and  enlarge  if  practicable,  the  water 
reservoir  upon  the  park  (now  leaky),  as  early  in  the  spring  as  possi- 
ble ;  also  to  build  a  new  piggery  upon  a  new  site  ;  and  instructed  the 
superintendent  to  obtain  plans  and  to  submit  them  to  the  Trustees 
seasonably." 

The  location  of  the  latter  involved  extended  c.onsideration,  and 
was  not  determined  in  time  to  do  more  than  grade  the  plateau  and 
construct  the  roads  leading  to  and  from  it  this  season. 

The  reservoir  was  made  perfect  in  its  holding  capacity,  and 
doubled  in  its  size,  and  covered  by  a  roof  with  dormer  windows  on 
each  of  its  four  sides,  surmounted  by  a  ventilating  cupola,  the 
completed  structure  becoming  thereby  an  attractive  feature  of  the 
park.  In  addition  to  the  increased  reserve  of  water  thus  obtained, 
arrangements  were  entered  into  with  Mr.  Crowell  for  extending  from 
his  village  works  a  branch  pipe  for  a  fire  hydrant  in  front  of  the  main 
line  of  buildings,  the  same  being  connected  and  under  pressure  from 
his  reservoir  on  Highland  Park,  which  was  also  completed  this  year. 

At  the  June  meeting,  Messrs.  Holbrook,  Tyler  and  Bradley  being 
present,  ''  Visited  the  wards,  the  domestic  departments,  the  park,  and 
especially  inspected  the  working  of  the  new  system  of  sewerage  con- 
structed last  year,  and  now  fully  perfected  in  all  its  connections. 
The  whole  establishment  was  pronounced  in  satisfactory  condition. 
The  general  work  of  repainting  during  the  winter  was  especially 
approved,  also  certain  minor  changes  at  the  Marsh  Building,  by 
which  the  old  furnace  room  had  been  converted  into  a  lodging  room, 
and  the  chimney  made  to  serve  a  ventilating  register  in  each  story, 

"The  proposition  to  erect  a  carriage  porch  at  the  rear  central 
entrance,  and  make  a  new  entrance  to  the  kitchen  department,  was 
also  indorsed  and  accomplished. 

"In  addition  to  the  foregoing,  a  plan  was  suggested  by  Mr.  Tyler, 
looking  to  the  commencement  at  no  very  distant  day  of  the  work  of 
reconstructing  the  x^sylum  upon  a  modern  plan  ;  by  doing  it  one 
wing  at  a  time,  as  it  was  originally  accomplished.     This  met  with  the 


258  ANNALS    OF   THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

immediate  indorsement  of  Gov.  Holbrook  and  Mr.  Bradley.  Voted 
also  to  change  the  time  of  the  monthly  meetings  from  the  2d  to  the 
ist  Tuesday." 

The  result  of  the  annual  election  of  officers  this  year  was  as  fol- 
lows : 

OFFICERS    OF    THE    BOARD. 

Fred'k  Holbrook,  Chairman. 
J.  M.  Tyler,  Treasurer. 
J.  Draper,  Secretary. 
Fred'k  Holbrook,  Auditor. 

RESIDENT    OFFICERS. 

Joseph  Draper,  Superintendent  and  Physician. 

S.  E.  Lawton,  ist  Assistant  Physician. 

W.  E.  Bowie,  2d  Assistant  Physician. 

H.  E.  B.  Gibson,  Matron. 

P.  C.  Spencer,  Steward. 

Geo.  W.  Pierce,  Farmer. 

The  Biennial  Report  of  the  Board  calls  attention  to  the  comple- 
tion of  the  first  half  century  of  the.  Asylum,  and  closes  as  follows  : 
"  The  Trustees  feel  that  the  work  of  fifty  years,  represented  by  the 
present  establishment  as  now  completed  and  modernized,  is  a  credit- 
able monument  to  those  who  have  had  in  charge  the  legacy  of  the 
founder,  and  the  development  of  her  cherished  wishes.  Their  plans 
for  the  future  embrace  further  efforts  at  improvement,  and  other 
departures  in  accordance  with  the  id^as  and  demands  of  the  time,  to 
the  full  extent  of  the  means  th«y  may  have  for  the  promotion  of  the 
chartered  objects  of  the  Institution." 

The  Superintendent's  Report  shows  the  number  in  the  Asylum  to 
be  four  hundred  and  fifty  ;  two  hundred  and  forty-nine  men,  and 
two  hundred  and  one  women.  The  admissions  for  the  biennial  term 
were  one  hundred  and  eighty-four,  and  the  discharges  one  hundred 
and  seventy-one.  Three  cases  are  especially  noted  as  having  recov- 
ered after  unusually  long  periods  of  continuous  insanity,  and  are 
commented  upon  as  follows  : 

''Two  of  them,  both  men,  were  admitted  to  the  Asylum  in  1881. 
Both  labored  under  melancholia,  and  both  were  strongly  suicidal — 
had  made  attempts  upon  their  lives  before  their  admission  to  the 
Asylum,  and  subsequently  thereto  on  repeated  occasions.  In  neither 
was  there  a  visible  lifting  of  the  clouds  until  about  a  year  preceding 
their  discharge,  and  then  convalescence  was  slow  but  sure.  The 
duration  of  insanity  was  in  each  case  over  five  years,  inclusive  of  the 
period  of  convalescence.     Both  were  in  middle  life. 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  i885-'86.  259 

"  Another  cage,  a  woman,  was  admitted  in  1880.  This  commenced 
as  one  of  melancholia  a  year  preceding  admission  ;  but  developed 
into  active  destructive  mania,  which  continued  without  intermission, 
and  without  manifest  abatement  until  about  six  months  preceding 
her  discharge,  when  a  decided  change  for  the  better  took  place,  and 
convalescence  was  thereafter  continuous  and  unmistakably  genuine. 
The  duration  of  insanity  in  this  case,  including  the  period  of  recov- 
ery, was  fully  seven  years.  The  mental  disorder  was  connected  with 
the  climacteric  period,  and  doubtless  dependant  upon  that  change. 
This  latter  case  is  especially  interesting,  as  we  had  come  to  regard  it 
a  confirmed  one,  and  saw  no  reasonable  ground  for.  a  hopeful  prog- 
nosis until  the  close  of  last  year. 

"  It  illustrates  the  possibility  of  recovery  in  cases  dependent  upon 
this  cause,  even  after  the  lapse  of  some  years.  Physicians  engaged 
in  this  specialty  know  that  in  many  cases  arising  from  other  causes, 
the  friends  often  look  forward  to  the  climacteric  in  hope  of  a  turn 
for  the  better,  but  in  our  experience  this  change  oftener  aggravates 
than  mitigates  the  previously  existing  malady,  and  no  good  ground 
exists,  in  the  experience  of  the  writer,  upon  which  such  hope  can  be 
confidently  stayed. 

"  The  two  cases  of  melancholia  are  instructive  in  the  confirmation 
they  afford  to  the  theory  that  the  course  of  melancholia,  as  a  rule,  is 
more  protracted  than  that  of  the  more  active  phases  of  insanity,  as 
of  mania — in  its  various  forms." 

Apart  from  the  analyzation  of  the  statistics  of  the  period,  the 
following  discussion  of  morbid  tendencies  goes  to  make  up  this 
report,  under  the  head  of 

Dangerous  Ground. 

"  Commenting  upon  the  liability  to  insanity  is  like  stepping  upon 
boggy  soil ;  however  carefully  one  picks  his  way  he  rarely  escapes 
missteps.  Still  it  is  a  territory  which  can  hardly  be  wholly  avoided. 
The  fact  shown  by  statistics  in  respect  to  the  element  of  heredity, 
which  enters  into  so  large  a  percentage  of  individual  cases,  is  liable 
to  be  given  undue  weight,  and  the  conclusion  is  too  hastily  drawn 
that  those  born  with  hereditary  tendencies,  from  their  earliest  years 
walk  over  pitfalls  or  quicksands  by  which  they  are  ever  liable  to  be 
engulfed.  Such  a  conclusion,  however,  cannot  be  accepted  without 
much  qualification.  In  the  discussion  of  all  questions  of  social 
science,  hobbies  are  ridden.  Special  vices  are  often  greatly  magni- 
fied in  their  influence,  both  upon  the  individual  and  the  race,  as  the 


26o  ANNALS    OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

gross  exaggeration  of  the  evils  of  one  in  particular,  by  charlatans, 
who  reap  profits  from  the  fears  and  apprehensions  of  its  subjects, 
well  attests.  The  heritage  of  mankind  is  subject  to  great  variations, 
and  there  can  be  no  question  but  that  its  drift,  undirected  and 
unmodified,  would  be  in  many  cases  towards  destruction  ;  but  the 
course  of  every  man's  life  is,  to  some  extent,  in  his  own  hands.  Not 
only  may  an  inborn  tendency  be  held  in  check,  but  it  may  often  be 
deflected  from  its  original  course,  and  even  decided  mischiefs  that 
may  have  been  sustained,  may  be  repaired.  Human  nature  is  often 
exhibited  to  view  in  its,  truest  colors  in  a  state  of  insanity.  Every 
psychological  student  has,  doubtless,  been  surprised  in  reflecting 
upon  this  matter,  and,  recognizing  this  fact,  at  the  almost  involun- 
tary inhibitory  power  exercised  over  mankind  in  general,  by  those 
acquired  influences  which  are  the  result  of  educational  agencies. 
The  safeguards  of  society  are  really  much  greater  than  are  gener- 
ally realized.  The  sway  exercised  over  the  masses  by  the  custom- 
ary conventionalities  of  life,  bears  rule  over  many  a  wayward 
prompting,  and  holds  in  check  very  decided  tendencies  to  abandon- 
ment. 

"'Pride,"  said  a  distinguished  divine  of  a  generation  ago,  "is  the 
ruling  principle  of  an  unsanctified  world  ;  "  and,  so  far  from  con- 
demning it,  he  accredited  it  with  a  most  salutary  power,  in  the 
absence  of  a  worthier  motive.  We  might  almost  venture  the  asser- 
tion that  one  is  safe  so  long  as  he  is  responsive  to  environing  influ- 
ences, and  only  in  danger  when  he  ceases  to  be  affected  by  public 
sentiment,  by  social  dicta,  or  when  he  turns  within,  and  preys  upon 
himself.  Egotism  is  usually  exalted  in  the  insane,  but  its  manifesta- 
tions vary  greatly.  Elevated  personal  appreciation  or  conceit  is  the 
most  harmless  and  superficial  phase  of  it.  It  takes  its  strongest  and 
most  baneful  hold  upon  a  person  when  it  absorbs  everything  to  itself 
and  sequestrates  its  rule. 

"  It  is  unfortunate  to  be  in  the  world  and  not  of  it.  So  long  as 
one  realizes,  and  acts  in  accord  with  the  realization  that  he  is  but  an 
individual  among  the  multitude,  and  that  the  welfare  of  the  whole  is 
the  happiness  of  each,  we  may  look  for  healthy  activities  ;  but,  when 
this  grand  general  fact  is  lost  sight  of,  morbid  action  begins,  and  a 
process  is  set  up  which  is  fatal  to  the  individual.  Involution  instead 
of  evolution  then  goes  on,  and  time  weaves  about  him  a  net  work, 
in  which,  as  a  chrysalis,  lost  to  his  fellows,  he  awaits  the  final  trans- 
formation. Every  life,  however  modified,  is  colored  by  its  inborn 
tendencies. .   The  sources  of  happiness  or  misery  spring  largely  from 


RECORD    OF    THE    YEARS    i885-*86.  261 

the  constitutional  predispositions  of  individuals.  A  naturally  cheer- 
ful person  sees  the  sunny  side  of  life  and  finds  in  any  environment 
a  prevailing  amount  of  enjoyment,  while  one  of  a  gloomy  cast  lives 
amid  forebodings,  and,  as  one  without  light,  gropes  silently  along 
life's  pathways,  half  fearing  to  tread  where  others  have  before  him 
and  shunning  the  healthful  sunlight  which  at  every  turn  beams  upon 
him  as  upon  all  others.  Such  natures  are  most  liable  to  become 
gradually  morbid,  and  to  glide  slowly  into  the  realm  of  delusion  and 
melancholy.  In  the  experiences  of  asylum  life,  not  a  few  are  seen 
to  have  thus  drifted  into  confirmed  insanity.  The  early  view  of 
life  may  have  been  a  cramped  one ;  the  outlook  through  the  narrow 
window  of  self-interest,  opening  out  upon  a  very  limited  field  of 
observation,  and  this  hedged  about  by  suspicion  and  envy. 

''No  greater  misfortune  can  be  labored  under  than  that  of  a 
childhood  passed  without  opportunities  for  expansion.  As  the  years 
move  on,  the  little  circle  becomes  the  whole  world,  and  all  outside 
is  viewed  with  vague  and  incorrect  ideas,  and  with  more  or  less 
of  distrust.  To  be  mentally  healthy  one  must  be  largely  unconscious 
of  self.  In  the  human  economy  the  vital  operations  go  on  uncon- 
sciously. There  is  something  the  matter  when  we  become  aware 
that  we  have  a  heart,  or  a  respiratory  apparatus,  or  a  stomach.  The 
functions  of  all  these  organs  go  on  silently  in  the  normal  state  and 
occasion  us  no  subjective  anxiety. 

"An  individual  is  but  a  member  of  the  great  body  of  mankind, 
and  his  functions  should  go  on  as  silently  as  those  of  the  single 
organs  that  go  to  make  up  the  individual  organism.  There  is  some- 
thing wrong  when  the  individual  jars  against  the  body  politic. 
A  healthy  organism,  individual  or  collective,  should  be  largely 
oblivious  to  special  functions.  There  is  incipient  disorder  always 
when  the  latter  rise  into  prominence,  and  exact  undue  attention.  It 
is  a  fact  well  known  to  medical  men  that  it  is  the  minor  ills  that 
oftenest  occasion  anxiety.  A  grave  organic  disease  usually  gives 
less  apprehension  than  a  mere  functional  disorder.  Not  unfrequently 
a  hopefulness  attends  its  whole  course,  while  hypochondria  connects 
itself  with  the  merest  functional  disorder.  Then,  too,  it  must  be 
remembered  that  persons  with  born  peculiarities,  and  encircled  by 
unusual  or  abnormal  influences,  to  some  extent  grow  into  harmony 
with  them,  and  adapt  themselves  thereto.  It  is  not  an  unusual 
circumstance  for  tourists  to  lose  their  lives  in  attempting  to  scale 
precipitous  points,  but  much  more  seldom  does  such  disaster  over- 
take the  native  mountaineer.  His  earliest  steps  being  taken  amid 
such  dangers,  he  confidently  lea})s  from  point  to  point,  and  measures 


262  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

with  accuracy  not  only  the  distances,  but  the  strength  of  the  supports 
upon  which  he  ventures.  Born  and  reared  amongst  the  crags, 
he  reaHzes  not  the  risks  as  those,  who,  ascending  from  the  plains 
gradually  comprehend  their  grandeur  and  awful  heights,  and  become 
appalled,  dazed,  giddy  and  lost  in  the  overwhelming  environment. 
The  chief  element  of  safety  to  the  denizens  of  this  dangerous 
territory  is  their  utter  obliviousness  to  its  perils.  Precisely  in  this 
state  is  the  individual  whose  life  is  hedged  about  with  unfortunate 
predispositions — safe  while  he  dwells  not  upon  this  fact ;  safe  if 
he  turns  not  selfward  and  broods  over  the  possibilities.  \Voe  betide 
him,  when  he  withdraws  within  himself,  and  shuts  the  door. 

"By  the  conditions  or  accidents  of  birth,  some  inhabit  unstable 
ground  ;  others  recklessly  or  inconsiderately  choose  perilous  paths, 
and  not  unfrequently  incur  greater  risks  of  falling  than  those  whose 
foundation  is  to  some  extent  uncertain.  Not  every  devious  and 
irregular  way  pursued  by  such  erratic  natures  should  be  regarded  as 
morbid,  though  abnormal  as  measured  by  the  course  of  mankind  in 
general ;  and  it  should  not  be  forgotten  that  those  to  the  manor 
born  may  tread  a  pathway  which  might  not  be  followed  by  others 
with  equal  safety. 

"  Besides  the  mischiefs  that  result  from  a  bad  start  in  life,  there 
are  some  incident  to  an  unwise  ending  of  it.  It  seems  to  be  a  cher- 
ished idea  with  most  men  who  are  fortunate  in  business  or  profes- 
sional life,  to  anticipate  a  period  of  restful  enjoyment.  To  the  man 
of  active  life,  impelled  onward  by  forces  he  has  helped  to  create,  and 
often  crowded  by  them  to  the  point  of  weariness  and  exasperation, 
it  is  the  most  natural  thing  to  look  upon  rest  and  freedom  from  such 
pressure  as  the  nearest  approach  to  bliss,  and  ever  and  anon  as  the 
years  go  by  he  finds  himself  longing  and  planning  for  a  complete 
surrender  of  all  the  activities  which  for  a  score  or  two  of  years  at 
least  have  constituted  his  life.  But,  when  this  is  accomplished  and 
he  sits  down  at  his  ease  to  enjoy  the  accumulations  of  his  life  labor 
the  situation  is  not  what  he  expected  ;  the  happiness  he  had  pictured 
he  does  not  find.  Involuntarily  he  sighs  for  his  accustomed  routine. 
In  his  devotion  to  the  one  object  of  securing  a  competency,  he  has 
not  forecast  the  necessity  he  now  feels  for  some  healthful  occupation 
of  his  energies,  and,  instead  of  repose,  unrest  is  upon  him.  Soon 
mis2:ivings  come  over  him,  and  the  realization  that  he  has  made 
a  mistake  that  is  irretrievable,  and  too  often  the  balance  of  life 
becomes  unhappy  and  a  condition  of  melancholy  beclouds  his  latter 
days.  This  result  is  seen  in  country  as  well  as  city  life,  among  the 
agriculturalists  as  among  the  commercialists.    -A  hardworking  farmer 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  i885-'86.  263 

devotes  himself  to  the  securing  of  an  estate  and  its  belongings.  It 
is  the  one  idea  of  his  life,  and  all  his  energies  are  devoted  to  it.  He 
is  successful,  and,  as  his  sons  grow  up,  ambitious  they  should  con- 
tinue with  and  succeed  him  in  the  management  and  care  of  the 
farm.  Other  fields  of  labor,  however,  beckon  them  away.  They 
go,  and  by  the  aid  of  hired  laborers  he  continues  his  charge.  As  the 
waning  years  of  life  creep  on  him,  he  begins  to  feel  the  responsi- 
bilities weigh  more  heavily.  Each  year  increases  the  burden,  until 
he  induces  a  son  to  return,  on  condition  that  he  surrender  to  him 
the  management  and  a  joint  title  to  the  farm,  or  he  disposes  of  his 
estate  and  determines  to  live  upon  the  proceeds  for  the  balance 
of  his  days  without  work.  In  either  case  he  soon  realizes  that  he 
has  made  a  mistake.  What  he  wanted  was  not  the  abandonment  of 
all  the  avocations  to  which  he  was  accustomed,  and  which  he  had 
most  rejoiced  in  when  in  the  full  vigor  of  his  years,  but  only  such 
modifications  of  burdens  as  gradually  increasing  age  demanded; 
relief  short  of  absolute  idleness.  In  the  large  proportion  of  cases 
the  absolute  retirement  from  a  life-long  engrossing  business  is 
fraught  with  danger,  and  followed  by  the  wreckage  of  all  anticipated 
satisfaction.  Some  of  this  result  is  due  to  too  circumscribed  ideas 
of  life — too  complete  devotion  to  a  single  object — to  habitual 
neglect  of  mental  cultivation,  or  of  maintaining  an  interest  in  the 
worlds  affairs  in  general,  so  that  when  the  life-long  pursuit  is  given 
up  there  offers  no  other  channel  in  which  the  remaining  and  accruing 
energies  can  be  employed  or  become  engrossed.  It  is  a  serious  and 
too  common  error  to  neglect  an  interest  in  other  things  than  those 
connected  with  one's  chosen  labor,  and  tends  gradually  but  ulti- 
mately to  narrowing  and  degeneracy. 

'^  To  the  individual  of  active  temperament  change  is  rest.  Every- 
thing in  life  is  opposed  to  passive  rest.  Activity  in  proportion  to 
strength  is  as  needful  to  the  preservation  and  enjoyment  of  life,  as 
is  continued  breathing.  The  phlegmatic  usually  take  the  whole  of 
life  so  easily  that  the  evils  of  nervous  exaustion  seldom  overtake 
them.  It  is  the  sanguine  and  nervous  who  break  down  most 
frequently;  nevertheless,  such,  having  more  versatility,  are  better 
prepared  to  rally  and  find  in  varied  ways  restoration. 

"  Those  of  the  bilious  or  motive  temperament,  who  devote  them- 
selves to  continued  physical  labor,  who  have  least  change  in  the 
routine  of  life  and  who  seek  and  take  fewest  diversions,  travel 
the  most  dangerous  road  and  are  most  helpless  and  hopeless  when 
they  fall." 

One  additional  mode  of  diversion  for  the  male  patients  is  chron- 


264  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

icled  in  this  report,  which  was  experimental  at  the  outset  and 
designed  as  an  offset  to  the  Summer  Retreat,  which  had  from 
its  opening  been  devoted  to  the  female  patients,  but  which  has 
proved  so  entirely  a  success  that  it  may  now  be  regarded  as  an 
established  thing.  It  was  commenced  in  the  summer  of  1885,  "  One 
day  of  each  week  was  set  apart  for  a  camping  excursion.  The  party 
was  made  up  of  fifteen  patients,  with  the  chief  attendant  and  two 
assistants  who  started  off  in  the  gray  of  the  morning  with  portable 
camp  equipage  and  provision  for  the  day,  partly  cooked  and  partly 
uncooked,  with  instructions  only  to  remain  away  all  day,  and  choose 
for  their  encampment  any  place  upon  the  Asylum  territory.  They 
pitched  upon  the  highest  land  of  the  estate,  a  mile  or  more  distant 
from  the  Asylum,  a  point  commanding  beautiful  views  up  the  valleys 
of  both  the  Connecticut  and  West  rivers,  and  there  improvised 
for  themselves,  returning  in  the  gloaming,  a  most  thoroughly  rejuve- 
nated company.  After  two  or  three  excursions  of  this  kind  (being 
obliged  to  return  once  prematurely  to  escape  a  threatened  tempest 
of  wind  and  rain),  arrangements  were  made  for  shelter,  and  two 
roofed  structures  with  open  ends  were  erected  to  guard  against 
sudden  contingencies.  These  recreations  were  continued  late  into 
the  autumn  and  resumed  again  in  June  this  year  with  unabated  zest. 
The  advantages  of  this  departure  were  so  manifest,  not  alone  in  the 
enjoyment  of  such  change,  but  in  the  curative  influence  evident 
(two  particularly  seeming  to  date  their  convalescence  from  these 
excursions  last  year),  that  we  have  determined  to  make  it  a  perma- 
nent feature,  and  two  acres  have  been  surveyed,  enclosed,  and  set 
apart  for  this  exclusive  purpose.  It  is  an  open  field,  skirted  by 
a  fringe  of  wood  as  a  back-ground.  Other  sheltered  structures  have 
been  erected  ;  also  a  kitchen  and  store  house,  and  a  croquet  ground 
graded  for  use.  Hereafter  the  camping  ground  will  be  one  of  the 
organized  features  appertaining  to  the  establishment." 

The  receipts  ot  the  biennial  period  aggregate,  $180,245.22.  The 
expenditures,  $165,338.18,  leaving  on  hand  a  balance  of  $14,907.04, 
which  the  plans  for  the  immediate  future  will  consume. 

The  following  extract  from  the  Report  of  the  Board  of  Super- 
visors of  the  Insane  for  the  years  1885-6,  shows  the  estimation  in 
which  the  Asylum  was  held  by  the  State  authorities  at  this  period. 

The  Sanitary  Condition  of  the  Asylum. 

"  It  would  hardly  seem  possible  that  the  sanitary  condition  of  the 
Asylum  could  be  materially  improved.  The  improvements  in  this 
direction,  begun  two  years  ago,   have  all  been    completed.      The 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  i885-'86.  265 

external  sewerage  of  the  building  has  been  made  to  correspond  with 
the  perfection  of  the  internal  arrangement  for  that  purpose  and  the 
entire  system  is  now  complete.  The  sewerage  is  now  conveyed 
away  under  ground  to  some  distance  from  the  Asylum,  and  below  it, 
with  little  if  any  possibility  of  any  offensive  odor.  In  order  to 
accomplish  this  the  water  supply  is  abundant  in  all  the  wards  ;  the 
water  closets  in  the  various  wards  are  all  flushed  at  short  periods 
by  a  patent  automatic  arrangement  and  thereby  kept  free  from 
impurities. 

"  The  ventilation  and  heating  are  accomplished  by  steam  power. 
A  large  steam  engine  in  the  rear  of  the  main  building,  so  far  away 
and  so  thoroughly  protected  as  to  occasion  no  danger  from  fire, 
supplies  the  power  which  sends  sufficient  heat  to  every  ward  in  the 
iVsylum  to  make  the  coldest  day  in  winter  seem  warm  and  genial  as 
a  summer's  day,  and  at  the  same  time  sending  through  them  all  cur- 
rents of  fresh  outside  air,  which  displaces  the  peculiar  odor  which 
pertains  more  or  less  to  asylum  and  hospital  life.  This  perfection  of 
sewerage,  heating  and  ventilation  in  the  Asylum  has  been  specially 
noticed  and  remarked  by  those  who  have  visited  it,  both  citizens  and 
strangers.  The  culinary  arrangements  of  the  Asylum  are  admirable. 
The  inmates  are  well  provided  for  in  respect  to  food.  It  is  well 
prepared  and  in  abundance.  Each  day  has  its  special  service,  and 
each  season  of  the  year  brings  its  special  luxuries  and  necessities  for 
the  table.  Invalids  have  dishes  prepared  for  them  with  all  the  care 
and  forethought  of  the  well-trained  nurse.  The  Board  have  occa- 
sionally heard  complaints  from  the  inmates  of  failure  in  quality 
or  quantity,  but  inquiry  has  not  elicited  any  confirmation  of  the  fact. 
When  it  is  remembered  that  a  large  share  of  the  inmates  of 
the  Asylum  came  from  the  lower  and  less  luxuriantly  fed 
classes  of  the  community,  it  will  hardly  be  surprising  that  complaints 
should  be  made,  nor  that  they  should  not  bear  inspection.  'J^he 
Board  also  take  pleasure  in  commending  the  neatness  and  clean- 
liness of  the  various  departments  of  the  Asylum,  and  the  general 
tidy  appearance  of  the  inmates  in  dress  and  person.  The  activity 
of  the  laundry  and  sewing  rooms  are  evidence  of  the  labor  necessary 
to  accomplish  this  desirable  result,  and  the  inmates  seem  to  respond 
well  to  the  requirements  in  this  direction.  The  dormitories  are  now 
nearly  all  supplied  with  hair  mattresses,  with  woven. wire  accompa- 
niments, which  have  taken  the  place  of  the  old  style  of  beds.  This 
is  a  new  departure  and  quite  in  contrast  with  the  uncouth  sleeping 
arrangements  of  former  days.  As  a  whole,  the  Board  consider  the 
sanitary  condition  of  the  Asylum  to  be  all  that  can  be  desired,  and. 


266  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

as  a  result,  there  has  been  during  the  past  two  years  but  very  Httle 
sickness  -among  the  inmates,  comparatively  none  save  that  which 
is  incident  to  this  class  of  people  in  any  community." 

The  fiftieth  anniversary  of  the  opening  of  the  Asylum  (December 
12,  1886)  fell  on  Sunday,  and  was  not  passed  without  notice. 

The  religious  service  was  this  day  performed  by  Rev,  C.  H. 
Merrill  of  the  Congregational  church  at  West  Brattleboro,  who 
preached  from  the  text,  John iv:  37,  38,  ''One  soweth  and  another 
reapeth.         *       *       *  Other  men  labored,  and  ye  are  entered 

into  their  labors." 

He  spoke  of  the  intimate  relations  which  succeeding  generations 
bear  to  one  another,  and  of  the  debt  of  obligation  which  this  present 
age  must  owe  to  the  past.  There  has  been  inherited  from  the  past 
all  the  wealth  which  has  been  so  rapidly  increasing  during  this 
19th  century.  Indirectly  this  wealth,  accumulated  by  individuals, 
has  all  gone  to  benefit  the  entire  community.  But  directly  in 
increasing  measure  it  has  been  applied  to  the  endowment  of  schools 
and  hospitals,  and  libraries,  and  asylums,  and  "homes." 

There  has  been  inherited  from  the  past  also,  the  results  of 
scientific  investigation^  and  increase  in  the  knowledge  of  the  laws  of 
nature.  The  fruits  of  this  appear  to-day  in  the  means  adopted  for 
the  prevention  and  cure  of  disease,  the  treatment  of  the  sick,  the 
relieving  of  pain,  and  the  marvelous  feats  of  surgery. 

A  far  more  precious  inheritance  appears  in  the  spiritual  legacy 
bequeathed.  With  the  institutions  firmly  established,  and  liberally 
endowed,  have  come  down  to  this  generation  the  spirit  of  wisdom 
that  moved  for  their  establishment,  and  the  spirit  of  liberality  that 
provided  their  endowment.  These  institutions  are  of  value  as  they 
are  alive  to-day  with  the  spirit  of  the  age,  and  their  endowment  is  of 
highest  importance  as  it  gives  them  power  to  secure  the  largest 
measure  of  this  spirit  in  the  officers  which  they  can  command. 

He  closed  with  the  following  words :  "We  are  reminded  by  our 
surroundings  this  afternoon,  that  this  is  the  fiftieth  anniversary  of 
the  opening  of  this  Institution.  The  blessing  it  has  been  to  those 
that  have  been  treated  here  during  all  these  years  may  be  taken  as 
the  fruit  of  the  seed  sown  in  a  former  generation. 

"  I  have  no  personal  knowledge  of  the  life  and  the  character  of 
her  by  whpse  act  this  Institution  was  founded.  But  I  know,  as  you 
well  know,  that  the  act  was  a  Christly  act,  worthy  the  approving 
word,  'Inasmuch  as  ye  have  done  it  unto  one  of  these  ye  have  done 
it  unto  me.'  Perhaps  in  no  other  way  does  the  truth  of  the  brother- 
hood of  man  and  the  unity  of  the  race  find  better  illustration  than 


RECORD  OF  THE  YEARS  i885-'86.  267 

by  the  bestowment  of  free  gifts,  by  those  who  are  in  health,  for  the 
endowment  of  institutions  for  the  care  and  treatment  of  those  prov- 
identially deprived  of  this  blessing.  It  is  an  act  done  in  recognition 
of  this  kinship.  Beyond  the  ties  of  family  and  kindred  and  blood, 
there  is  felt  to  be  the  tie  of  a  possible  fellowship  in  suffering,  and 
heirship  to  the  same  covenant  of  promise.  Institutions  of  this  kind 
are  Christian  institutions,  whatever  be  their  name  ;  and  it  is  because 
we  live  in  a  land  where  the  civilization  is  of  the  Christian  type,  that 
we  find  them  among  us  in  such  numbers  and  in  such  excellence. 
It  is  fitting  then  that  we  turn  our  thoughts  from  the  gift  to  its  ulti- 
mate source,  the  Master  himself,  by  whose  spirit  hearts  are  quickened 
to  acts  of  devotion.  The  immortality  of  a  good  deed  is  to  us  the 
type  of  the  immortality  of  a  character  formed  by  good  deeds, 
unselfish  service,  loyalty  to  the  truth.  To  those  who  have  been 
blessed  with  the  blessing  of  Christian  institutions,  there  comes  the 
call  for  the  yielding  of  life  to  a  more  perfect  obedience  to  the  power 
of  the  divine  truth,  and  the  divine  life." 

There  was  present  at  this  service  one  patient*  who  was  admitted 
during  the  first  year,  and  who  had  been  a  continuous  resident  almost 
the  whole  half  century. 

*A1)ijah  W.  Betterly  of  Newfane,  Vt. 


CONCLUSION. 


BRIEFLY  has  been  reviewed  the  history  of  the  Asylum  and  its 
work  from  its  precarious  beginning,  and  struggUng  early  life, 
to  its  full  development.  Here  we  rest.  It  is  for  the  future 
chronicler  to  record  its  coming  annals,  and  note  what  may  hence- 
forth be  accomplished  in  the  great  cause  of  humanity,  here.  Its 
previous  history  has  been  unpretentious.  No  imposing  ceremonies 
— as  in  more  modern  days — attended  the  laying  of  its  corner  stone  ; 
but  the  hands  of  the  masons  were  directed  by  the  guiding  spirit  of 
philanthropy,  and  possibly  "they  builded  better  than  they  knew." 

The  principal  object  of  the  foregoing  pages  will  be  accomplished 
if  they  serve  to  correct  the  misapprehensions  which  have  grown  up 
concerning  the  status  of  the  Institution,  and  to  show  how  it  has  been 
created  and  developed. 

If  we  mistake  not,  too,  it  will  illustrate  as  the  history  of  no  sim- 
ilar institution  does,  the  possibilities  dependent  upon  the  pursuance 
of  a  steady  line  of  policy  and  prudent  financial  management.  It 
bears  witness  too,  to  the  wisdom  of  that  form  of  government  usually 
denominated  "a  close  corporation,"  by  which  vacancies  in  the  man- 
aging board  are  filled  by  the  surviving  members.  In  no  other  way 
can  a  steady  principle  of  management  be  secured.  Had  it  been 
otherwise  it  is  more  than  probable  that  the  story  of  a  deplorable 
failure,  instead  of  a  success,  would  have  been  the  tale  to  be  told. 

Appended  to  these  annals  are  presented  in  condensed  form  the 
medical,  financial,  and  constructive  records  of  the  fifty  years.  These, 
with  their  brief  explanatory  comments,  merit  careful  notice.  The 
memorial  chapter  following,  it  is  believed  will  likewise  be  of  interest 
as  affording  a  clearer  idea  of  the  men  who  have  wrought  the  results 
which  here  appear.  The  individual  sketches  are  obituaries  rather 
than  biographies,  and  the  facts  shown  are  chiefly  those  affording  the 
record  of  their  labors  in  connection  with  the  Institution.  But  with- 
out these  the  record  of  the  half  century  would  be  incomplete,  and  the 
reader  be  left  to  the  misleading  conclusions  of  his  own  fancy  in  res- 
pect to  the  living  character  of  the  individuals  here  passed  in  review. 


THE  MEDICAL  RECORD. 


The  following  tabular  view  of  the  results  of  the  half  century,  is  com- 
piled from  the  published  reports  year  by  year. 


I  Admitted 


Year. 


Discharged 


T3 
'> 

'a 
g 

•  o 

:z; 


Remaining 


1837. 
1838. 
1839. 
1840. 
1 841. 
1842. 
1843. 
1844. 
1845- 
1846. 

1847. 
1848. 
1849- 
1850. 
1851. 
1852. 
1853- 
1854. 
1855. 
1856. 
1857. 
1858. 

1859. 
i860. 
1 861. 
1862. 
1863. 
1864. 
1865. 
1866. 
1867. 
1868. 


1870 

1871-72... 
1873-74... 
1875-76... 
1877-78... 
1879-80... 
1881-82... 

1883-84 i 

1885-86 ' 


20 
27 
36 
36 
40 
50 

55 
47 
97 
95 
71 
74 
69 
78 
63 
79 
70 

n 

78 
80 
64 
89 
80 
78 
83 
71 

64 
82 

n 

85 

74 

76 

61 

140 

109 

125 

108 

105 

III 

117 

112 


28 
20 
35 
37 
44 
51 
56 

49 
107 
102 

64 
82 
67 
72 

74 
82 

89 

86 
86 
92 

?3 
68 

76 

65 

57 
75 

l\ 

62 
84 
58 
61 
48 
59 

lOI 

95 
97 
59 

.72 

n 
69 

72 


48 
47 
7 

73 
84 
Id 
III 
96 
204 
197 
135 

136 
150 

137 
161 

163 
164 
172 
147 
157 
156 

143 
140 
146 
.98 
128 
144 
161 

143 
135 
124 
120 
241 
204 
222 
167 
177 
188 
186 
184 


7 
22 

19 
30 
38 
41 
44 
38 
49 
78 
62 
62 
67 

67 

62 

72 


74 
75 
73 
70 
69 
71 
54 
59 

61 

75 

60 
158 
136 
108 
124 
96 
104 
118 
102 


li  78 
84 
79 


81 
65 

68 

52 
48 

63 
71 
64 
56 

55 

53 

106 

92 
96 

73 
93 
90 
72 
69 


14 

45 

61 

70 

83 
88 

74 
99 
69 

22 

48 

30 
40 

30 
45 

46 
59 
59 
41 

551 
40  i 

^^ 
38 
21 

19 
12 
22 
48 

25 

?^ 

13 
264 
228 
204 
197 
189 
194 
190 
171 


3200  2876  6076  2951  2675  5626  2398  995  i  735  1498 


6 
25 
25 
33 
4 

49 
51 
51 
59 
94 
74 
84 
74 
79 
73 
78 
72 
80 

79 
82 

74 
80 
67 

56 
47 
41 
52 
55 
58 
48 
46 
49 
35 
99 
48 
56 

36 

52 
44 


12 

8 

34 

16 

13 

12 

18 

10 

22 

12 

16 

19 

II 

II 

20 

16 

ID 

13 

12 

14 

13 

15 

21 

18 

19 

II 

17 

19 

17 

16 

22 

21 

29 

21 

15 

17 

16 

24 

12 

9 

14 

II 

27 

20 

21 

18 

22 

21 

19 

16 

18 

20 

48 

43 

87 

37 

69 

25 

49 

32 

49 

55 

49 

23 

SI 

26 

36 

20 

13 
18 

35 
41 
43 

63 

72 

120 

137 
146 
158 
160 

173 
169 

,  175 

431  183 
40  ^°° 


38 
37 
39 
40 

37 
32 
42 
38 
39 
42 
43 
38 
42 
44 
40 
74 
56 

64 

49 
86 
61 
71 


52  185 


190 
192 
207 
212 
217 
230 
232 
208 
218 
241 
241 
265 
264 
267 
268 
250 
223 
240 
224 

233 
240 

239 
249 


21 
18 
34 
40 

61 

73 
86 

143 
154 
158 
154 
158 

155 
166 
176 
i8g 
201 
209 
217 
221 
208 
219 
219 
208 
231 

234 
240 

239 
252 
246 
251 

244 
250 
245 
248 
249 
235 
214 
201 
198 
201 


34 
36 

81 
95 
113 
136 
158 
263 
291 

304 
312 
318 
328 
335 
351 
372 
389 
394 
407 

413 
415 

436 
438 
463 
442 
458 
480 
493 
511 
515 
511 
518 

495 
471 
489 
459 
447 
441 
437 
450 


The  foregoing,  summarized,  shows  of  the  whole  number  discharged : 
recovered  42.6  per  cent.;  improved  17.7;  not  improved  13.1  ;  died  26.6,; 
and  of  the  whole  number  received  (barring  fractional  percentages),  out  of 
every  one  hundred  (100),  thirty-nine  (39)  were  discharged  recovered,  sixteen 
(16)  improved,  twelve  (12)  not  improved,  twenty-five  (25)  died,  and  eight  (8) 
remained  under  care. 


THE  FINANCIAL  RECORD. 

This  is  compiled  from  the  abstracts  of  the  current  receipts  and 
expenditures  contained  in  the  annual  and  biennial  Reports,  and 
affords  the  basis  for  some  approximative  conclusions  and  gen- 
eralizations. 


Year. 


1837 
1838. 

1839 
1840. 
1 841. 
1842. 
1843- 
1844. 
1845. 
1846. 

1847- 
1848. 
1849- 
1850. 
1851. 
1852. 

1853- 
1854. 
1855. 
1856. 
1857. 
1858. 
1859. 
i860. 
1 861. 
1862. 
1863. 
1864. 
1865. 
1866. 
1867. 


1870.... 
1871-72. 
1873-74. 
1875-76. 
1877-78. 
1879-80. 
1881-82. 
1883-84. 
1885-86. 


(U  (U 
bG-V 

(U  ^ 

<   ° 


>  rt  0,1 


19 

35 
52 
75 
88 
104 
124 
147 
210 
277 
297 
308 
315 
323 
331 
343 
361 
380 
392 
401 
410 
414 
426 
433 
437 
451 
453 
450 
469 
486 
502 
513 
513 

506 
473 
477 
472 
452 
443 
434 
436 


^3-527 
2.731 
2.815 

2.429 

2.524 
2.333 

2.024 

1.844 

I-53I 
1.596 
1.712 

1.934 
2.144 
2.017 
1.996 
2.224 
2.231 
2.287 
2.498 
2.550 
2.638 
2.736 
2.746 
2.568 
2.720 
2.544 
3-755 
2.749 
2.762 

3.043 
3.005 
2.960 
3.054 
3.105 
2,960 

4.349 
3.640 
3.810 
3.581 
3.902 
3.948 
3.646 


$2.00 
2.00 
2.00 
2.00 
2,00 
2.00 
2.00 
2.00 
1.50 
1.50 
1.50 
1.50 
1.50 
1.50 
1.50 
1.50 
1.50 
1.50 
1.50 
1.75 
1.75 
1.75 
1.75 
1.75 
1.75 
1.75 
1.75 
1-75 
2.25 
2.25 
2.25 
2.25 
2.25 
3.00 
3.00 
3.00 
3.00 
3.00 
3.50 
3.50 
3.50 
3-75 


368.74  $3.0361 


<u  (U  3   +3 


-$  324.02 
1,866.73 
5,045.46 
7,926.54 
9,926.86 
11,839.26 

12,935.36 
13498.61 
14,673.19 
17,341.29 
23,758.40 

26,720.09 

31,295.34 
35,825.09 
34,240.12 

35,423.54 
38,290. 

40,305.73 
44,492.33 

49,805.11 

53,609.03 
55,745.43 
58,663.44 
59,433.70 
59,270.28 

59,704.75 

60,381.02 

85,788.51 
61,744.27 
66,164.93 
76,289.19 

78,938.29 
79,554.28 
80,028.63 
85,281.72 
160,708.51 
213,810.66 

180,818.55 
187,261.96 
168,493.28 
180,381.43 
178,247.21 
180,245.22 


X   <U   Ih' 

(U  i:;  03 

O   ^   OJ 


H  CL, ' 


$  3,484.71 

4,970.10 

7,612.68 

9,473.67 

11,549.13 

12,615.54 

13,050.15 

14,092.05 

16,721.45 

23,148.05 

26,445.80 

30.975.93 
35,110.23 

33,868.93 
34,349.66 
39,673.96 
41,877.18 
45,194.20 
50,924.42 

53,161.59 
56,238.12 
58,890.58 
60,408.76 
57,809.68 
61,797.24 

59,653.59 
88,451.81 
64,335.14 
67,358.37 
76,904.17 
78,450.11 
78,943.72 
81,472.07 
83,163.49 

155.771.73 
213,929.11 
180,584.06 
187,036.16 
168,352.06 
179,791.52 
178,214.10 
165,336.18 


$2,926,098.24  $2,911,191.20  $604,701.24 


S  a  o  '''  s^  S^ 
-i  y  tn  o  0< 
ai^  5  ?.j  o  :3 

spJr 


$      214.75 

1,405.46 

2,518.54 

2,126.86 

2,687.26 

2,119.36 

602.61 

614.81 

961.29 

2.152.40 

3,554.09 

7,271.34 

11,255.09 

9,046.12 

9,605.54 

11,536.88 

12,147.73 

14,852.33 
19,229.11 
17,118.03 

18,435.43 
20,989.44 
20,940.70 
19,867.28 

19,937.75 
19,340.02 

44,565.51 
20,794.27 
11,291.93 

19,427.19 
20,204.29 
19,533.28 
20,007.63 
4,941,72 
2,836,51 
66,234.66 

31,994.55 
39,997.96 
3,965.28 
19,129.43 
20,271.21 
10,205.22 


January     13, 

1837,  Rec 

sived  of  St 

27, 

a                    i 

'                       U                 i 

Decemb'r  11, 

a                     i 

i                       U                 i 

April            9, 

1838; 

i                a           i 

Decemb'r  14,. 

u                     i 

1                a           i 

February  15, 

1839, 

a           i 

March       11, 

U                             i 

i               u    •       < 

272  ANNALS    OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

The  foregoing  table  shows  that  the  current  receipts  of  the  Asylum 
for  the  fifty  years  of  its  operations  aggregate  $2,926,098.24. 

Apart  from  the  resources  thus  collated,  there  has  been  received 
and  expended  on  separate  account  : — 

1.  The  Marsh  legacy,  received,  October  3,  1835,  $10,000,  which 
was  expended  in  the  purchase  of  the  original  site  of  six  acres,  with 
buildings,  together  with  forty-five  acres  of  meadow  for  farming  pur- 
poses, and  for  remodelling  and  enlarging  the  house  for  the  reception 
of  patients,  to  which  it  was  opened  Dec.  12th,  1836. 

2.  The  appropriations  made  by  the  State  for  enlargements  of 
the  buildings,  aggregating  $23,000.  The  several  appropriations 
making  up  the  above  amount  were  received  and  expended  as 
follows  : — 

Treasurer,  $1,500 

2,500 
"  2,000 

"  4,000 

"  2,000 

"  2,000 

"  2,000 

These  appropriations  were  expended  in  the  construction  and 
furnishing  of  the  original  center  building  and  first  wing  west.  The 
last  three  drafts  were  discounted  and  cashed  by  the  State  treasurer 
before  they  fell  due,  the  Trustees  having  urgent  need  of  the  funds 
to  meet  the  pressing  demands  of  the  Asylum  extensions.  The  fore- 
going sums  include  the  first  appropriation  of  $10,000  (Nov.  9,  1835) 
payable  in  five  annual  instalments,  also  the  individual  appropria- 
tions of  $2,000,  Nov.  15,  1836,  and  of  $4,000,  Nov.  i,  1837,  due 
April  I,  1838. 

In  January,  1841,  the  appropriation  made  Oct.  29,  1840,  of  $2,000 
annually  for  two  years,  was  discounted  and  cashed,  and  expended 
in  the  erection  of  the  first  wing  east  in  1841-2. 

The  final  appropriation,  Nov.  i,  1843,  of  $3,000,  payable  Oct.  i, 
1844,  was  discounted  and  received  of  the  State  Treasurer  Aug.  15, 
1844,  and  was  expended  in  the  extension  of  the  west  wing  that 
year. 

3.  The  amount  of  the  Marsh  legacy,  $10,000,  and  of  the  State 
appropriations,  $23,000,  added  to  the  aggregate  of  the  current 
receipts  as  per  table,  gives  a  total  received  and  expended  in  the  half 
century  of  $2,959,098.24,  save  the  balance  on  hand  at  the  close  of  the 
last  fiscal  year  of  $14,907.04,  which  latter  is  offset  by  liabilities 
exceeding  it  by  $4,477.46. 


FINANCIAL  RECORD.  273 

The  current  receipts  of  the  Institution,  as  shown  by  the  table 
have  been  derived  ahuost  exclusively  from  the  care  of  the  patients, 
save  what  has  been  received  at  three  different  times  from  insurances. 

In  1858  the  receipts  include  $1,448.63  from  this  source,  on 
account  of  the  burning  of  the  stock-barn  the  December  previous. 

In  1863  $25,300  was  received  and  expended  in  the  rebuilding  of 
the  center  building  and  west  wing,  burned  in  December  previous. 
This,  in  the  table,  has  been  added  to  the  ordinary  receipts  and 
expenditures  of  that  year.  Again,  in  1877,  insurances  to  the  amount 
of  $7,837.62  are  included  in  the  current  receipts  and  expenditures. 
The  entire  resources  derived  from  sources  other  than  the  care  of 
the  inmates  therefore,  aggregate  in  the  whole  fifty  years  $67,586.25 
to  wit : 

From  the  Founder,  $10,000.00 

"       "     State,  23,000.00 

"       "    Insurances,  34,586.25 

4.  Calculations  based  upon  the  average  number  of  patients  for 
the  whole  time,  show  the  average  cost  for  each  patient  per  week,  for 
the  whole  fifty  years,  to  have  been  $3,036. 

From  the  opening  of  the  Institution  to  1845,  the  pauper  rate  was 
$2  per  week.  From  1844  to  1856,  it  was  $1.50  per  week.  From 
1855  to  1865,  it  was  $1.75  per  week.  From  1864  to  1870,  it  was 
$2.25  per  week.  From  1869  to  1879,  it  was  $3  per  week.  From 
1878  to  1885,  it  was  $3.50  per  week,  and  subsequently  to 
1884,  it  has  been  $3.75  per  week.  The  average  rate  paid  for  those 
supported  at  the  public  charge  for  the  whole  half  century  is  $2.30 
per  week. 

5.  Had  all  the  patients  from  the  beginning  been  of  the  depend- 
ent classes,  and  been  supported  at  the  rate  allowed  by  the  State,  the 
total  resources  derived,  as  shown  by  the  table,  would  have  been  less 
than  the  actual  receipts  by  $604,701.24. 

The  Construction  Record  shows  the  whole  cost  of  the  Asylum 
estatel"  and  buildings,  to  have  been  $383,197.36.  Add  to  this  the 
personal  estate  $56,683.00,  and  a  total  property  valuation  is  repre- 
sented of  $439,880.36. 

It  is  clear,  therefore,  that  the  establishment  has  been  developed 
out  of  the  receipts  over  and  above  the  income  derived  from  the  rate 
allowed  by  the  State  ;  and  upon  striking  the  balance  there  appears 

*The  landed  estate  proper  embraces  a  little  over  seven  hundred  acres.  There 
are  also  outlying  lands — principally  mountain  tracts — -of  about  the  same  area,  orij^in- 
ally  purchased  for  the  fuel  upon  them,  and  of  little  value  for  any  other  uses. 


274  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

still  a  surplus  of  $164,820.88.  Taking  from  this  all  that  has  been 
derived  from  sources  other  than  the  care  of  the  inmates,  there  still 
remains  $97,234.63,  which  has  been  swallowed  up  in  making  the 
financial  ends  meet  from  year  to  year. 

The  conclusion  inevitably  reached  respecting  the  financial 
relations  of  the  Asylum  to  the  State  is,  that  the  latter  has  been 
largely  the  gainer.  In  any  view  possible,  the  Institution  has  been 
the  loser  by  so  much  as  the  average  rate  per  week  paid  by  the 
State  falls  below  the  average  expended  per  week. 


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THE  CONSTRUCTION  RECORD. 

1836— 1886. 

Compiled  from  the  preceding  annals,  deeds,  etc. 


1836.    Land  and  buildings  of  N.  Woodcock, 
"      of  Eben  Wells, 
"       "  Houghton  Pike, 
Remodeling  and  extension  of  buildings, 
1838.    Spring  of  Houghton  Pike, 

Cost  of  original  centre  building  and  first  wing 
west, 

1 841.  Cost  of  first  wing  east, 

Aqueduct  shares  of  J.  Minott,  and  pipe, 

1842.  "  "       "   A.  Greene, 

1844.  Extension  to  west  wing, 

1845.  "  "    east      " 
Spring  of  Eben  Wells, 

1846.  Cemetery  plat  of  A.  Brown,  and  construction 

of  tomb, 

1847.  Land  of  John  L.  Dickerman, 
Aqueduct  and  right  of  way  of  N.  Allen, 

1848.  Land  of  A.  and  A.  Bennett, 

"       "  Chas.  Chapin, 
Extension  of  centre  building,  and   east  wing 
(north), 

1849.  Land  of  John  R.  Blake, 

"      "   Newman  Allen, 
"      "   Samuel  Thomas, 

1850.  ''       "    Nelson  Crosby, 
"       "   Newman  Allen, 

Cost  of  meadow  barn  and  horse  shed, 

1 85 1.  x\ddition  to  east  wing. 

Cost  of  iron  aqueduct  pipe  from  Wells  Spring 

1852.  Cost  of  laundry  building, 

Cost  of  laundry  machinery  and  fixtures, 
Land  of  Houghton  Pike, 
'\l  [  "   David  W.  Miller, 


$3,500.00 

2,700.00 

8.00 

3,560.65 

150.00 

12,399.67 

7,769.87 

250.00 

150.00 

4,654.82 

6,325.66 

200.00 

150.00 
1,000.00 
340.00 
800.00 
150.00 

6,485.99 

3,500.00 

180.00 

250.00 

100.00 

482.00 

1,100.00 

2,000.00 

1,436.04 

2,500.00 

1,500.00 

5.00 

600.00 


276 


ANNALS    OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 


1853- 

1854. 
1855. 


1857- 


1859- 


i860. 
1861. 
1862. 

1863: 


1864. 
1865. 
1866. 

1867. 
1868. 


Land  of  Addison  Brown, 

"       "   Chas.  Chapin, 

"      '^   W.  H.  Rockwell, 

"      ''  W.  E.  Eason, 

"       ''   Wells  Heirs, 
Cost  of  piggery, 
*'      "    west  wing  extension  and  addition  (north), 
''      *'    brick  storehouse  in  rear  of  west  wing 
Land  of  the  Wells  Heirs, 

"      "   Nelson  Crosby  (including  quarry), 

"      "  W.  H.  Rockwell, 

"      "  John  L.  Sargent, 
Cost  of  male  infirmary, 

"      "  female     " 

"      "  wood    storehouse    appended   to  Marsh 
Building, 
Land  of  P.  B.  Francis, 

"      "   Martha,  Elizabeth  and  Harriet  Crosby, 

"      "   Prouty  &  Sampson, 
Cost  of  Marsh  Building, 
Land  of  Shepard  Rice, 

"      "   Newman  Allen  (farm), 

"      ''   John  L.  Heywood  and  others, 
Cost  of  rebuilding  meadow  barn. 
Land  of  Mary  A.  Knowlton, 

''      ''  W.  H.  Rockwell, 
Cost  of  brick  stable. 
Land  of  Keith  White, 

Cost  of  raising  roofs  of  wings  on  main  line. 
Land  of  Farnsworth  and  Colburn, 

"      "   Colburn  and  Cobleigh, 

"      "   Fred'k  Holbrook, 

"      ''  J.  F.  Stearns,  Sally  Nurse  and  others. 
Cost  of  rebuilding  centre,  and  west  wing, 
Land  of  Wells  Goodhue, 
Cost  of  barn  at  farm  house. 
Cost  of  large  wood-house  (now  stable). 
Land  of  Henry  F.  Smith, 

Spring  of  James  H.  Capen,  (by  exchange  of  land). 
Land  of  Francis  T.  Green, 

"      '*   Mary  A.  Knowlton, 

"      ''  William  Knowlton, 

"      "  Willard  Edwards, 


$150.00 

500.00 

4.800.00 

300.00 

3,700.00 

500.00 

8,000.00 

4,000.00 

5,185.00 

90.00 

450.00 

210.00 

5,000.00 

5,000.00 

400.00 

300.00 

600.00 

2,010.00 

10,000.00 

20.00 

10,500.00 

840.00 

2,000.00 

30.00 

100.00 

2,500.00 

1,700.00 

12,000.00 

200.00 

400.00 

1,700.00 

1,752.00 

41,000.00 

1,800.00 

2,500.00 

1,500.00 

250.00 

1,800,00 

1,800.00 

300.00 

1,500.00 


CONSTRUCTION  RECORD. 


277 


1869.  Cost  of  new  laundry  wing  and  furnishing, 

1 8 70.  "      "  new  farm  house, 
Land  of  H.  H.  Rice, 

187 1.  "       "   D.  W.  Miller, 
Water  right  of  C.  J.  Weld, 

"      "   I.  B.  Taft, 
"      "   J.  H.  Capen. 
'*  "      "   Executors  of  James  A.  Chase, 

Land  of  Executors  of  James  A.  Chase, 

"      "  Lavinia  C.  Chase, 
Cost  of  iron  pipe  from  Capen  Spring, 
1873-4.    Cost  of  east  and  west  extensions  to  wings, 

"      "  boiler     house,    tunnels,    boilers     and 
engine, 
1875-6.       "      "  steam  works  and  reconstructive  work, 
1877-8.       "      "  completion  of  heating  and  ventilating, 
"      "  rebuilding  burned  line  of  rear  build- 
ings and  reconstructing  wood-house 
into  stable, 
Land  of  R.  N.  Hescock,  and  house. 
Cost  of  shop  and  ice  house, 
1879-80.    Cost  of  radical  alterations  and  extensions  of 
rear  wards,  six  new  bath  rooms,  etc., 
Land  of  George  Person  and  wife, 
1881-2.  "       *'  J.  Draper, 

"      "  C.  A.  Miles, 
Cost  of  park  survey,  plan  and  fencing, 
"      ''  reconstructing  Miles  house, 
1883-4.         ''      "  constructing  verandas,  brick  connect- 
ing wall  and  granite  work, 
"      "  reconstructing    chapel    with    altera- 
tions in  third  story  of  centre  building, 
Land  of  Joseph  Prescott, 
1885-6.      Cost  of  new  system  of  sewerage, 

"      "  reconstructing  engine  house,  and  re- 
locating   and    reconnecting   boilers, 
etc.. 
Cost  of  cupolas  on  wings,  (7) 


Personal  estate  as  per  appraisal  Aug.,  1886, 


12,000.00 

2,500.00 

3,500.00 

2,600.00 

500.00 

250.00 

50.00 

2,575-oo 
500.00 

3^375-44 
43,214.18 

13,000.00 

17,313-54 
8,888.21 


23,449,29 

775.00 
5,000.00 

4,853.00 
1,800.00 
2,400.00 
7,500.00 
1,169.00 
5,500.00 

3,650.00 

7,500.00 

700.00 

2,200.00 


4,500.00 
300.00 

$383,197-36 
56,683.00 


Total  valuation. 


$439,880.36 


IN    MEMORIAM 


AT  the  close  of  a  fifty  years'  record  few  remain  who  at  its  begin- 
ning were  instrumental  in  its  initiatory  work.  It  is  our 
purpose  now  to  roll  back  the  cloud  of  oblivion  which  year 
by  year  has  settled  down  upon  its  history,  and  catch  once  again  a 
glimpse  of  those  figures  which  in  the  early  years  came  and  went, 
and  finally  passed  out  of  the  sphere  of  earthly  activities  into  the 
mists  which  we  cannot  lift,  and  which  are  beyond  our  following.  Of 
the  four  to  whom  was  committed  the  bequest  of  Mrs.  Marsh,  and 
who  were  charged  with  the  trust,  one  alone  is  yet  living. — 

Samuel  Clark. 

Judge  Samuel  Clark,  the  first  named  member  of  the  original 
Board,  died  in  April,  1861.  At  the  date  of  his  appointment  as  Trus- 
tee he  was  57  years  of  age,  and  he  presided  over  the  meetings  and 
deliberations  of  the  Board  for  eighteen  years,  resigning  his  trust  at 
75.  His  characteristic  traits  are  well  set  forth  in  a  biographical 
sketch  of  his  life  by  Rev.  Joseph  Chandler,  as  follows  : 

"  He  was,  in  his  sphere,  a  strong  man  ;  fitted  by  nature  and  b}^ 
the  wise  and  diligent  use  of  his  energies,  to  exert  an  influence  in 
society.  Though  possessed  of  strong  feelings,  his  judgment  was 
sound  and  his  opinion  was  much  valued  by  his  neighbors.  Prudence 
and  sagacity  were  marked  traits  in  his  character.  Another  pleasing 
trait  was  his  readiness  to  make  amends  for  anything  done  under  the 
impulse  of  excited  feeling,  which  he  was  led  afterward  to  look  upon 
as  wrong.  He  was  not  one  of  those  men  of  assumed  infallibility, 
who  make  it  a  point  never  to  take  back  anything,  and  never  to 
acknowledge  themselves  mistaken.  In  many  instances  when  he  was 
called  upon  to  express  his  opinion  and  to  give  his  vote,  he  seldom 
hesitated  to  declare  himself  faithfully  and  frankly  upon  the  point  in 
question  ;  and  almost  as  often  would  express  his  willingness  to 
acquiesce  in  the  decision  of  the  majority  against  him.  In  all  mat- 
ters, however,  involving  moral  principle,  or  that  seemed   to   him  of 


IN  MEMORIAM.  279 

superlative  importance,  he  was  firm  and  unyielding  ;  and  he  brought 
all  the  energies  of  his  strong  and  impetuous  nature  to  bear  upon  the 
business  of  maintaining  and  carrying  out  his  convictions." 

This  sketch  doubtless  correctly. estimates  Mr.  Samuel  Clark,  but 
from  other  sources  we  have  evidence  more  to  the  point,  illustrative 
of  the  strong  elements  of  his  character,  showing  his  marked  individ- 
uality, keen  observation,  unusual  executive  ability,  and  withal  his 
strong  religious  convictions,  his  sense  of  the  humorous,  his  position 
on  questions  of  the  day,  and  especially  his  systematic  business  habits. 
His  private  affairs  often  led  him  to  make  journeys  from  home  of 
days  and  even  weeks  together,  and  letters  written  to  his  family  dur- 
ing these  absences  from  home  have  been  preserved  and  bear  testi- 
mony to  his  positive  qualities.  On  one  occasion,  writing  from 
Hampton,  Washington  Co.,  N.  Y.,  he  speaks  of  attending  a  fair,  and 
says,  "  Those  who  went  to  see  fine  horses,  handsome  cattle,  great 
sheep,  ten  thousand  people,  abundance  of  dirt  and  a  great  scarcity 
of  water,  must  have  come  away  satisfied  ;  but  [I]  heard  so  much 
talk  about  Black  Hawk  and  Morgan,  that  it  became  sickish  as 
abohtion[ism];"  by  which  latter  remark  his  politics  may  be  inferred. 

Again,  writing  from  Saratoga  Springs,  (Aug.  8,  1833),  he 
describes  the  inconveniences  incident  to  the  crowded  hotels,  and 
says,  "Very  few  people  here  from  Vermont,  none  from  our  own 
county, — chiefly  from  the  South  and  New  York,"  adding  humor- 
ously, "  no  very  great  characters  here,  except  Mr.  Van  Buren  and 
myself." 

Under  date  of  August,  1836,  he  writes  to  his  son  at  home,  con- 
cisely, in  regard  to  business  accomplished,  which  doubtless 
typifies  his  method  of  doing  it :  "I  think  I  have  put  a  quietus  on 
all  our  boys  in  Troy,  and  they  will  all  be  easy  with  their  business 
and  places  one  year.  Have  advised  S.  to  keep  his  store  and  go  on 
alone,  J.  to  keep  his  place  and  be  easy,  E.  to  be  a  good  boy — to 
which  they  all  agree."  Of  Saratoga  he  says,  "  Twenty-four  hours  is 
long  time  enough  to  be  at  the  Springs  merely  to  see  what  is  to  be 
seen,  but  three  weeks  or  more  is  necessary  in  order  to  form  agree- 
able acquaintances  and  enjoy  them.  Everything  seems  to  go  by 
steam,  and  at  high  pressure,  too." 

In  the  autumn  of  1837  he  was  commissioned  by  vote  of  the 
Trustees  of  the  Asylum  to  go  to  Montpelier  and  urge  further  aid  on 
the  part  of  the  State,  in  extending  the  capacity  of  the  buildings. 
Writing  from  there  (Oct.  21st)  he  says,  "Our  Insane  Report  was 
presented  this  morning  and  500  copies  ordered  to  be  printed.  Those 
whom  I  converse  with  speak  favorably  of  the  project,  but   can  give 


28o  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

no  opinion  of  its  final  result.  I  am  preparing  myself  to  make  my 
statement  before  the  committee,  when  perhaps  half  the  Legislature 
will  be  present.  Many  agree  to  assist  me  in  my  business,  but  it  will 
be  a  hard  thing  to  get  $12,000.  I  shall  go  home  when  my  business 
is  done  if  a  kind  Providence  permits.  They  all  like  the  Institution 
for  the  insane — they  like  my  report,  but  have  no  money  to  give 
away.  I  do  not  think  we  shall  succeed,  but  as  long  as  there  is  any 
chance  I  will  not  leave.  I  attend  no  caucuses  whatever,  but  have 
been  to  one  anti-slavery  meeting  quite  as  bad.  ■  The  great  Birney  is 
here.  I  appeared  before  the  temperance  committee  and  made  my 
little  speech  when  our  petition  was  under  consideration." 

In  1843,  writing  to  his  son,  then  member  of  the  General  Assem- 
bly of  Vermont,  he  says  :  "  You  will  have  much  to  do  for  your 
constituents — the  railroad,  bank,  insane,  temperance,  etc.,  for  which 
I  hope  and  presume  you  will  do  all  you  can.  I  think  very  little  of 
the  railroad,  but  the  East  village  is  all  engaged  in  it,  and  they  must 
have  an  act  of  incorporation.  I  think  the  railroad  will  never  come 
to  B.,  and  if  it  does  the  stock  will  be  worth  nothing." 

He  lived  to  see  the  iron  track  laid,  and  Brattleboro  thus  held  in 
connection  with  the  rest  of  the  world  ;  but  his  prediction  in  respect 
to  the  value  of  the  stock,  up  to  the  date  of  his  death,  had  been 
fulfilled. 

A  subsequent  letter  in  reply  to  one  from  this  son,  so  well  shows 
his  strong  common  sense  that  we  quote  the  bulk  of  it  : 

^*  Yours  by  Mr.  Keyes  is  received,  read  twice,  shown  the  family, 
and  laid  on  the  table.  We,  the  people,  as  yet  approve  of  what  our 
servants  are  doing  at  the  seat  of  government,  and  think  we  shall  if 
you  will  follow  our  directions,  and 

ist.     As  a  general  thing  let  existing  laws  alone. 

2d.     Have  a  short  session. 

3d.  The  law  of  last  year  respecting  capital  punishment  ought  to 
be  repealed  ;  so  says  the  sound  part  of  the  community. 

4th.     Let  the  usury  law  alone. 

5th.  We  are  satisfied  with  the  present  organization  of  our  courts, 
and  doubt  if  you  make  them  any  better, — but  care  little  about  it. 

6th.  Pay  the  State  debt  if  you  can  get  time,  and  the  laws  will 
let  you. 

7th.  Get  the  bills  for  the  banks  and  insane  through  if  possible, 
as  they  are  right  and  just. 

8th.  In  order  to  satisfy  your  constituents  pay  a  little  attention 
to  the  railroad. 

9th.     All  come  home  next  week. 


IN  MEMORIAM.  281 

loth.  We,  the  people,  think  well  of  Judge  Williams.  Maj. 
Smith  thinks  you  will  leave  him  out  of  office." 

His  views  relative  to  Asylum  management  nowhere  individually 
appear,  but  the  foregoing  quotations  sufficiently  indicate  his  abid- 
ing interest  in  the  Institution.  There  seems,  indeed,  to  have  been 
no  conflicting  views  in  respect  to  practical  management  between 
either  Trustees  or  Superintendent.  The  only  individual  expression 
in  respect  to  policy  is  gleaned  from  a  letter  to  a  son  under  date  of 
August,  1847,  in  which,  among  other  matters  of  mention,  he  says, 
"It  was  our  annual  meeting  at  the  Insane  [Asylum]  yesterday.  The 
books  show  330  patients.     We  hope  there  will  not  be  any  more." 

John  Holbrook. 

Dea.  John  Holbrook,  the  second  member  of  the  original  Board, 
died  in  office  in  1838,  when  the  Asylum  was  in  its  infancy,  or  had 
but  just  been  set  upon  its  feet.  He  was  73  years  of  age  when 
appointed  to  this  trust,  but  his  life  had  been  second  to  none  other  in 
prominent  connection  with  the  development  of  this  village  in  growth 
and  prosperity.  Like  Samuel  Clark,  Mr.  Holbrook  was  a  man  of 
the  most  sterling  character,  and  of  marked  personal  peculiarities. 

The  historian  of  Brattleboro  says  of  him  :  "  Difficulties,  dangers, 
obstacles  such  as  discourage  common  men,  act,  if  they  act  at  all,  on 
such  men  as  Mr.  Holbrook  merely  as  stimulants  to  their  progress;" 
and  again,  "  Some  idea  of  Mr.  Holbrook's  peculiar  style  of  express- 
ing his  emotions  can  be  seen  by  the  following  :  Mr.  Holbrook  sent 
his  man-of-all-work  some  distance  from  home  to  get  some  early 
potatoes  for  planting.  The  man  returned  with  the  potatoes  and 
informed  him  of  the  price  charged.  Mr.  H.  said,  '  Jacob,  return  the 
potatoes  immediately,  and  say  to  Mr.  W.  I  would  as  soon  die  by 
famine  as  by  the  sword.'  " 

This  incident  serves  to  indicate  the  self-reliance  and  independ- 
ent action  of  the  man,  and  the  manner  he  would  have  been 
likely  to  meet  any  attempts  in  those  early  days  that  might  have  been 
made  at  exorbitant  exactions  upon  the  meagre  funds  which  had  been 
left  to  found  so  great  an  enterprise  upon,  and  which  the  result  shows 
were  so  religiously  husbanded  and  so  judiciously  appropriated  by 
the  Board. 

Another  anecdote  is  related  of  Mr.  Holbrook  illustrative  of  his 
true  catholicity  of  spirit,  which,  notwithstanding  his  identification 
with  the  Puritan  church  and  the  dogmas  of  the  time,  asserted  itself 
on  occasion.     An  old  clergyman,  and  distant  relative,  once  drove  up 


282  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM.    * 

to  his  hospitable  door,  and  being  welcomed  and  made  comfortable, 
entered  soon  into  a  discussion  and  advocacy  of  the  doctrine  of  infant 
damnation.  Mr.  Holbrook  listened  until  his  patience  was  exhausted 
and  his  indignation  swelled  beyond  endurance,  when  he  broke  forth 
declaring  in  no  uncertain  language  that  "  he  would  not  entertain  one 
who  held  such  damnable>iews,"  and  literally  driving  him  from  the 
house. 

In  person  Mr.  Holbrook  was  above  six  feet  in  height,  strong  and 
well  proportioned,  of  swarthy  complexion,  and  of  unusually  com- 
manding presence,  so  much  so  that  a  stranger  observing  him  in  a 
crowd  would  look  at  him  a  second  time. 

Col.  Crocker,  late  of  Fitchburg,  Mass.,  when  a  young  man  and 
clerk  in  the  Kendall  Manufacturing  Company's  establishment,  in 
Leominster,  used  to  relate  the  circumstance  of  his  first  interview  with 
Mr.  H.  in  substance  as  follows:  It  was  toward  the  close  of  a  summer's 
day  that  Mr.  Holbrook,  then  on  his  way  to  Boston,  and  covered  with 
dust  of  travelling,  entered  unannounced  the  counting-room  of  the 
manufactory,  and  approaching  young  Crocker,  inquired  with  a  voice 
and  manner  never  to  be  forgotten,  ^'  Is  Col.  Kendall  within  ? "  Being 
politely  informed  that  he  was  not  far  off,  Mr.  H.  supplemented  his 
inquiry  by  the  command,  "  Young  man  go  and  find  him,  I  wish  to 
see  him  immediately,"  which  he  lost  no  time  in  doing.  The  natur- 
ally swarthy  complexion  of  Mr.  Holbrook,  made  more  so  by  the  heat 
and  dust  of  travel,  and  his  remarkably  commanding  air  and  voice, 
left  the  most  abiding  impression  upon  young  Crocker,  and  as  he  was 
wont  afterwards  to  say,  he  "  could  not  have  gone  much  quicker  had 
he  been  shot  out  of  a  gun." 

Notwithstanding  this  character  of  authority,  however,  he  was  as 
remarkable  for  tenderness  of  feeling,  and  for  benevolence  of  the 
most  spontaneous  and  generous  kind. 

His  death,  which  occurred  in  the  second  year  of  the  operations 
of.  the  Institution,  cut  off  the  opportunity  for  the  exercise  of  his 
strong  individuality  in  the  direction  of  the  work  thus  newly  inaugu- 
rated, but  there  is  evidence  showing  that  the  selection  of  the  site  was 
largely  determined  by  him. 

Epaphroditus    Seymour. 

The  third  member  of  this  first  Board  was  Epahpro'  Seymour,  who 
at  the  time  of  his  appointment  was  cashier  of  the  Bank  of  Brattle- 
boro,  and  5 1  years  of  age.  The  following  testimony  to  his  general 
character  is  given  by  Hon.  Charles  K.  Field  : 


IN  MEMORIAM.  283 

"  Mr.  Seymour  was  eminently  practical  in  all  his  views  and  opin- 
ions, and  of  most  excellent  judgment.  The  public,  particularly  those 
who  were  about  to  engage  in  new  enterprises,  reposing  great  confi- 
dence in  his  superior  financial  ability,  uniformly  consulted  him  in 
relation  to  their  proposed  investments,  and  were  always  controlled  by 
his  opinions.  His  advice  was  always  eagerly  sought  and  adopted. 
He  constantly  warned  all  who  were  inclined  to  engage  in  specula- 
tions, against  the  folly  and  danger  which  was  so  alluring  to  a  man 
with  a  greed  for  wealth,  and  so  dangerous  to  him  when  the  money 
of  others  is  under  his  control.  He  begged  of  his  friends  to  make  no 
investments  but  those  that  were  perfectly  legitimate  and  promised  a 
safe  return.  The  community  reposed  the  most  implicit  confidence 
in  his  integrity.  Before  the  adoption  of  Savings  Banks  and  Trust 
Companies  in  this  State,  large  sums  of  money  were  intrusted  to  his 
care  and  keeping,  and  in  many  cases  with  a  simple  minute  noting 
the  amount,  yet  for  the  period  of  more  than  forty  years  not  a  whis- 
per was  ever  breathed  against  his  fidelity  in  the  discharge  of  any 
fiduciary  engagement  he  had  assumed.  He  was  a  generous-hearted 
man  to  the  poor  and  unfortunate,  and  kindly  aided  young  men  who 
were  struggling  against  adversity  and  poverty  to  obtain  an  educa- 
tion, and  qualify  themselves  for  professional  pursuits." 

Such  was  the  man  who  was  elected  treasurer  of  the  Asylum  funds, 
and  who  filled  the  office  from  the  organization  of  the  Board  in  1835, 
till  the  election  of  Mr.  Williston  as  his  successor  in  1841.  He  was  a 
man  of  positive  character  and  strong  in  his  likes  and  dislikes.  He 
often  gave  to  young  men  sound  and  cautious  advice. 

An  instance  is  related  in  which  he  sought  an  interview  with  one 
since  distinguished,  and  after  referring  to  a  recent  event  in  the  line  of 
his  advancement,  and  remarking  that  "this,  in  his  view,  was  but  the 
beginning,"  said,  "I  am  an  older  man  than  you,  and  have  perhaps 
considered  some  things  you  have  not  yet  had  occasion  to.  I  want 
merely  to  say  that  when  you  meet  a  man  and  converse  with  him  on 
any  subject,  you  can  say  anything  to  his  face  that  it  is  proper  to  say 
to  a  gentleman,  and  he  will  understand  you  just  as  you  mean  it ;  the 
circumstances  attending  contribute  to  his  correct  understanding  of 
you  ;  but  if  you  go  and  write  it,  it  may  turn  out  that  an  entirely  dif- 
ferent construction  is  placed  upon  it  from  what  you  intended.  There- 
fore, I  would  advise  you  fo  he  very  cai-eful  what  you  put  on  paper y 

John  C.  Holbrook. 

John  C.  Holbrook  was  the  fourth,  and  now  only  surviving  mem- 
ber  of  the  orio^inal  Board,  and  to  him  I  am  indebted  for  much  of 


2^4  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

early  history  in  detail.  Under  date  of  March  ii,  1885,  he  writes: 
"You  are  aware  of  the  difficulties  connected  with  the  founding  of 
such  an  institution  with  so  small  a  beginning  as  was  provided  for  in 
Mrs.  Marsh's  will,  and  especially  when. three  out  of  four  of  the  orig- 
inal Trustees  were  somewhat  advanced  in  life,  and  all  very  cautious 
business  men.  We  had  many  long  and  anxious  meetings,  and  the 
fact  that  one  of  the  Trustees  was  comparatively  a  young  man  [26 
years],  and  of  a  sanguine  and  hopeful  disposition,  probably  had  an 
important  influence  in  deciding  the  case." 

Again,  under  date  of  Nov.  3,  1886,  he  says.  ''The  announcement 
by  Mr.  Keyes  of  our  appointment  took  the  four  original  Trustees  by 
surprise,  and  caused  us  to  hesitate  to  undertake  the  founding  of  an 
institution  for  the  insane,  as  none  of  us  had  had  any  experience  in 
such  work,  nor  had  ever  studied  or  thought  on  the  matter.  The  task 
of  correspondence  with  persons  abroad  who  were  experienced  and 
interested  in  institutions  for  the  insane,  to  gain  information  and 
advice,  devolved  upon  me,  and  involved  considerable  labor.  My 
father  also  [John  Holbrook]  and  myself  spent  considerable  time  in 
searching  tor  the  best  location  for  the  Institution,  and  we  personally 
examined  many  sites.  Then  the  question  of  a  superintendent  for 
the  Institution  was  a  perplexing  one  ;  but  I  believe  we  were  provi- 
dentially guided  in  securing  Dr.  Rockwell,  whose  careful  manage- 
ment and  enthusiastic  devotion  to  the  enterprise,  under  God,  secured 
its  remarkable  success." 

John  C.  Holbrook,  during  the  period  of  his  trusteeship,  was  a 
prominent  business  man  as  well  as  public-spirited  citizen.  No  man 
was  more  prominent  than  he  in  all  public  enterprises,  and  at  all 
gatherings  he  was  active  and  apt  to  seize  and  forcibly  present  the 
strong  points,  which  he  grasped  as  by  intuition,  and  with  a  ready 
flow  of  language  gave  full  and  strong  expression  to.  After  his 
retirement  from  the  Board  he  went  west,  settling  in  Iowa,  Here  he 
buried  his  wife  and  two  remaining  children  (four  in  all)  within  a 
brief  period,  which  turned  his  thoughts  toward  the  ministry  for 
which  he  prepared  himself,  and  in  which  he  has  since  distinguished 
himself  as  a  preacher,  and  now  bears  the  title  of  D.  D,  He  was 
largely  instrumental  in  the  founding  of  Iowa  College,  of  which  he 
was  one  of  the  original  Board  of  Trustees. 

Asa  Keyes. 

Judge  Keyes  was  elected  to  fill  the  first  vacancy  in  the  original 
Board,  succeeding  Dea.  John  Holbrook  upon  his  decease  in   1838. 


IN  MEMORIAM.  285 

He  was  51  years  of  age  at  this  date,  and  held  the  office  till  1874, 
when  he  resigned  on  account  of  age  and  infirmities.  He  was  longer 
identified  with  the  Institution  than  any  of  his  colleagues,  hav- 
ing drawn  up  the  will  for  Mrs.  Marsh  who  founded  the  iVsylum,  and 
been  subsequently  employed  by  the  original  Trustees  to  procure  the 
charter  as  the  testatrix  stipulated  should  be  done. 

By  profession  a  lawyer,  his  standing  is  thus  attested  by  an  emi- 
nent colleague,  Charles  N.  Davenport  : 

"Though  not  eminent  as  a  jury  advocate,  he  was  a  successful 
practitioner,  a  good  draughtsman,  a  skillful  pleader,  and  the  best 
equity  lawyer  in  Southern  Vermont,  if  not  in  the  whole  State.  His 
Supreme  Court  briefs  are  models  for  other  practitioners.  He  was 
always  listened  to  attentively  by  the  courts,  for  he  never  talked  unless 
he  had  something  to  say.  He  was  studious  and  painstaking,  faithful 
to  his  clients  and  honest  with  the  Court.  He  was  a  good  husband, 
a  kind  father,  and  always  faithful  to  every  trust.  He  never  attained 
wealth.  The  income  arising  from  the  practice  of  his  profession  he 
spent  freely  in  his  family,  and  gave  generously  to  the  church  he 
attended,  to  public  objects,  and  to  the  poor  and  needy,  as  many 
among  them  can  testify." 

As  a  Trustee  of  the  Asylum  it  is  difficult  to  see  how  he  could 
have  been  more  judicious  in  counsel  or  more  devoted  in  his  interest. 
He  died  in  1880,  passing  away  at  the  close  of  a  summer's  day  (June 
4th)  without  illness,  while  quietly  seated  in  his  chair,  at  the  advanced 
age  of  93. 

Nathan  B.  Williston. 

Mr.  Williston  came  upon  the  Board  in  1839,  as  the  successor  of 
Mr.  John  C.  Holbrook,  who  then  resigned  and  removed  from  the 
State.  Mr.  W.  was  all  his  life  identified  with  the  town  of  Brattleboro 
as  a  business  man,  and  filled  the  office  of  treasurer  at  the  Asylum 
for  thirty-four  years.  He  resigned  in  1875,  and  died  in  1883,  at  the  age 
of  86.  He  was  very  useful  upon  the  Board  as  one  of  its  building 
committee  for  many  years  and  in  connection  with  the  financial  inter- 
ests of  the  Asylum,  from  the  practical  view  he  habitually  took  of  all 
business  affairs. 

An  obituary  by  Rev.  Dr.  Geo.  L.  Walker  (his  son-in-law)  says, 
"  Mr.  Williston  w^as  a  man  of  retiring  and  modest  disposition,  though 
of  somewhat  curt  and  brusque  manners.  He  had  a  tender  heart, 
and  many  more  were  the  recipients  of  his  generous  kindnesses  than 
ever  the  history  of  this  world  will  know.     In  his  religious  life  he  was 


286  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

a  man  of  naturally  doubting,  and  even  almost  skeptical  tendencies, 
though  a  member  of  the  Congregational  church  and  one  of  its  most 
loyal  supporters  for  over  fifty  years." 

Jonathan  Dorr  Bradley. 

J.  Dorr  Bradley,  Esq.,  was  elected  to  succeed  Mr.  Seymour  as  a 
Trustee  of  the  Asylum  in  1847.  Born  in  1803,  of  an  old  Vermont 
family  (he  was  grandson  of  Stephen  R.  and  a  son  of  Wm.  C.  Brad- 
ley), a  graduate  of  Yale  College  in  the  class  of  1822,  and  a  lawyer  by 
profession,  he  entered  upon  this  trust  at  the  age  of  44,  and  for  the 
remainder  of  his  life  served  upon  the  Board  with  great  efficiency, 
and  with  both  wisdom  and  zeal.  Tributes  to  his  memory,  and  expres- 
sive of  the  estimation  in  which  he  was  held  by  his  co-trustees  and 
the  superintendent,  will  be  found  in  the  record  of  1863. 

The  estimation  in  which  he  was  held  throughout  the  State  is 
indicated  in  the  following  obituary  notice  from  the  pen  of  Hon. 
E.  P.  Walton  of  Montpelier : 

"  It  is  with  great  sorrow  that  we  record  the  death  of  this  distin- 
guished gentleman,  at  his  residence  in  Brattleboro,  Sept.  8,  1862. 
We  learn  that  he  was  taken  severely  ill  with  fever  some  three  weeks 
since,  and  that  his  disease  made  rapid  progress  until  it  quenched  one 
of  the  most  cultivated  intellects  and  genial  hearts  that  our  State  has 
produced.  He  had  a  discerning,  rapid  and  comprehensive  mind,  an 
elegant  and  varied  culture.  He  was  quick  and  ardent  in  his  sympa- 
thies, a  lover  of  truth  and  justice,  and  a  fervid  hater  of  all  shams 
and  hypocrisy.  He  was  a  member  of  the  House  of  Representatives 
for  two  years,  in  which  the  State  House  controversy  was  waged,  and 
and  distinguished  himself  as  a  leader  in  debate  in  that  most  brilliant 
conflict.  If  it  had  not  been  for  his  deafness,  which  prevented  his 
hearing  all  points  of  a  discussion,  no  man  that  Vermont  has  pro- 
duced would  have  surpassed  him  in  debate  in  the  halls  of  legislation. 
But  whatever  might  have  been  the  qualities  that  fitted  him  for  a 
public  career,  he  was  most  eminent  in  social  and  private  life.  His 
rare  store  of  information  and  culture  was  open  to  his  friends,  and  he 
had  few  equals  in  the  genial  exchanges  and  conversations  of  social 
life.  His  reading  was  extensive  and  recherche,  his  memory  was  reten- 
tive, his  style  of  conversation  was  playful  and  captivating  and  always 
appropriate  to  his  theme.  His  perceptions  were  quick  and  vivid, 
his  illustrations  apt  and  beautiful,  and  his  whole  air  and  manner 
reminded  us  of  the  school  of  elder  times  in  which  he  had  his  training. 


IN  MEMORIAM.  287 

The  death  of  such  a  man  is  a  public  calamity,  and  in  common 
with  his  nearer  associates,  neighbors  and  friends,  we  would  lay  a 
small  tribute  of  our  high  appreciation  of  his  worth  upon  his  fresh- 
made  grave." 

Daniel  Kellogg. 


Hon.  Daniel  Kellogg  was  elected  the  successor  of  Mr.  Bradley 
in  December,  1863.  He  was  advanced  in  life  at  the  time  of  his 
election  to  this  trust,  but  held  the  office  until  May,  1874,  when  he 
resigned.  He  died  the  following  year.  May  10,  1875,  ^t  the  age  of 
84  years.  A  lawyer  by  profession,  and  a  resident  of  Windham 
County  for  more  than  sixty  years,  the  esteem  in  which  he  was  held 
is  indicated  in  the  following  record  of  his  public  services  : 

He  was  for  a  few  years  State's  Attorney  for  Windham  Count}^, 
and  Judge  of  Probate  for  the  District  of  Westminster,  Secretary  to 
the  old  Governor  and  Council  of  Vermont  during  the  administra- 
tions of  Governors  Butler  and  Van  Ness,  U.  'S.  District  Attor- 
ney for  the  State  of  Vermont  for  twelve  years,  during  the  adminis- 
trations of  Presidents  Jackson  and  Van  Buren,  Adjutant  and 
Inspector  General  of  the  State,  Representative'for  the  town  of  Rock- 
ingham in  the  General  Assembly,  and  State  Senator  for  the  County 
of  Windham  for  two  years.  In  1843,  ^e  was  chosen  President  of  the 
State  Constitutional  Convention,  and  elected  Judge  of  the  Supreme 
Court  of  the  State  from  1845  to  1852.  After  his  retirement  from  the 
bench  he  moved  to  Brattleboro,  where  he  resided  until  his  decease. 
His  wide  and  varied  exjierience  and  extended  acquaintance  through- 
out the  State  was  of  service  to  the  Institution,  and  his  connection 
with  the  Board  added  to  its  strength,  while  his  leisure  enabled  him 
to  interest  himself  actively  in  the  mission  and  work  of  the  Asylum. 
Few  men  more  fully  sustained  in  personal  appearance  and  bearing  a 
character  for  dignity,  courtliness  and  integrity,  than  he ;  he  looked 
all  these,  and  commanded  everywhere  unreserved  respect.  In  relig- 
ion he  was  an  Episcopalian ;  in  politics  a  Democrat.  But  his 
patriotism,  like  that  of  the  founders  of  the  Republic  when  its  exist- 
ence was  contested,  governed  his  action  to  the  exclusion  of  all  other 
considerations.  The  following  ringing  utterances  are  ascribed  to 
him  in  the  dark  days  of  the  civil  war  :  "  I  know  of  no  other  way 
but  to  stand  by  the  old  flag ;  come  what  may,  all  else  is,  with  me,  of 
secondary  ^consideration — my  party,  my  church  may  perish,  but  save 
the  country." 


288  ANNALS    OF  THE   VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

THE    PRESENT   BOARD. 

EX-GOVERNOR  Frederick  Holbrook,  the  chairman,    is   now 
the  veteran  Trustee,  having  been  elected  to  succeed  Judge 
Samuel  Clark,  the  chairman  of  the  original  Board,  in   1852, 
and  having  already  had  a  continuous  service  of  near  35  years. 

Dr.  William  H.  Rockwell  was  chosen  to  succeed  Judge  Daniel 
Kellogg  in  1874,  and  has  been  upwards  of  twelve  years  upon  the 
Board. 

Hon.  James  M.  Tyler  was  elected  at  the  same  time,  as  the  suc- 
cessor of  Judge  Asa  Keyes. 

Richards  Bradley,  Esq.,  was  chosen  to  succeed  Mr.  Nathan  B. 
Williston,  who  resigned  in  1875. 


SUPERINTENDENTS. 

DR.  Wm.  H.  Rockwell,  the  first  superintendent  and  the  presiding 
genius  of  the  establishment  for  more  than  the  average  period 
of  a  generation,  was  born  in  EastWindsor,  Conn.,  Feb.  15, 1800. 
He  was  a  graduate  of  Yale  in  its  collegiate  course  in  1824,  and  in  the 
medical  department  in  1831.  The  history  of  the  Asylum  for  the 
first  thirty-six  years  of  its  existence,  is  the  record  of  his  life-work  ; 
and  so  far  as  the  chronicler  of  these  annals  has  been  able  to  do  it,  is 
faithfully  portrayed.  He  came  to  the  charge  of  the  Asylum  with  an 
experience  of  some  seven  years  at  the  Hartford  Retreat  as  the  assist- 
ant of  Dr.  Todd,  and  after  the  death  of  Dr.  T.  was  for  a  number  of 
months  in  charge  of  the  Retreat,  and  wrote  the  Report  of  the  Insti- 
tution for  1834. 

It  is  difficult  in  this  place  to  enlarge  upon  his  signal  career  with- 
out repetition.  He  entered  upon  his  work  in  connection  with  the 
Vermont  Asylum  with  a  determination  to  make  it  a  success,  that  was 
invincible.  Throughout  these  annals  the  work  of  each  year,  and  the 
salient  points  in  connection  therewith  illustrative  of  his  strong  self- 
reliance  and  individuality,  are  set  forth.  His  great  financial  and 
executive  ability  require  no  enlargement.  Many  were  the  incidents 
connected  with  the  "days  of  small  things"  which  he  was  fond  of 
recalling  and  relating  in  his  later  life.  A  single  anecdote  may  here 
be  mentioned. 

It  was  in  the  winter  of  the  opening  ;  all  the  funds  had  been  used 


IN  MEMORIAM.  289 

in  the  purchasing,  remodehng  and  furnishing  of  the  establishment, 
and  when  the  snow  fell  there  was  no  suitable  vehicle  in  which  the 
patients  could  be  taken  out  to  ride.  The  Doctor  found  where  a 
second-hand  two-seated  sleigh  could  be  obtained  at  the  moderate 
price  of  $12.  He  stated  the  want  to  the  treasurer,  but  that  official 
was  out  of  funds,  and  advised  that  "'the  outlay  be  avoided  that  sea- 
son." The  Doctor  solved  the  problem  by  making  the  purchase  on 
his  own  account,  and  carrying  it  till  the  funds  of  the  Asylum  war- 
ranted the  treasurer  in  lifting  it  from  the  hands  of  the  superin- 
tendent. 

A  single  case  illustrative  of  the  Doctor's  professional  sagacity 
and  judgment  seems  worthy  of  special  mention.  When,  in  1859,  the 
writer  became  an  assistant  to  Dr.  R.,  one  of  the  earliest  cases  falling 
under  his  medical  care  was  that  of  a  gigantic  Scotchman,*  then  in  a 
decline,  and  suffering  from  dropsical  complications  of  which  he  soon 
after  died. 

This  man  had  been  an  inmate  of  the  Asylum  nineteen  years.  He 
had  been  previously  for  several  years  kept  in  a  cage,  and  cared  for 
by  the  lowest  bidder  annually.  His  insanity  was  originally  caused 
by  bathing  in  cold  water  when  overheated.  He  was  brought  to  the 
Asylum  chained.  It  is  related  that  on  his  arrival  in  Brattleboro  he 
particularly  attracted  the  notice  of  a  medical  man  from  New  York, 
then  stopping  in  town,  from  his  immense  stature  and  the  strong 
manner  in  which  he  was  bound  ;  that  he  followed  him  to  the  Asylum 
and  saw  with  astonishment  that  the  Doctor  at  once  had  his  irons 
removed,  and  manifested  no  apprehensions  as  to  the  risks.  From 
day  to  day  he  came  to  the  Asylum  to  learn  of  the  condition  of  the 
madman,  and  when,  after  a  month  had  elapsed,  he  saw  him  working 
in  the  garden,  his  astonishment  and  admiration  of  the  management 
of  the  case  knew  no  bounds.  He  returned  to  New  York  saying, 
"he  had  found  the  place  in  which  to  treat  lunatics,  and  the  man  to 
do  it."  It  may  be  added  that  from  the  time  the  patient  commenced 
working  in  the  garden,  it  is  a  matter  of  record  that  he  continued  a 
steady  worker  until  stopped  by  his  last  illness.  In  the  management 
of  this  case  we  see  a  repetition  of  the  act  which  made  the  name  of 
Pinel  famous  ;  but  no  one  who  knew  Dr.  R.  would  venture  to  charge 
him  with  having  aped  the  distinguished  Frenchman.  The  motives 
leading  to  the  apparently  venturesome  risk,  if  closely  sifted,  we 
apprehend  would  be  found  identical.  That  a  condition  warranting 
restraint  had  existed,  would  hardly  be  denied  ;  and  in  those  days 
chains  were  the  approved  means  of  restraint.     But  both  recognized 

*Duncan  McDonald,  Ryegate,  Vt. 


290  ANNALS    OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

that  a  stage  had  been  reached  in  these  cases,  when  the.  harshness  and 
unrelenting  rigor  of  such  restraint  might  be  safely  dropped,  and 
other  controlling  means  and  influences  be  substituted  and  depended 
upon. 

By  reference  to  the  events  of  the  year  1873,  it  will  be  seen  that 
the  Doctor  died  at  the  Institution  he  had  been  so  largely  instrumental 
in  creating.  A  biographical  sketch  of  his  life  was  presented  to  the 
Association  of  American  Superintendents  and  published  in  their 
transactions  of  1874.  Another  was  read  before  the  State  Medical 
Society  of  Vermont,  and  published  the  same  year. 

A  third  was  published  in  the  History  of  Brattleboro,  1880,  pre- 
pared by  Dr.  E.  R.  Chapin,  whose  family  relationship  to  him  quali- 
fied him  most  faithfully  to  compile. 

I  quote  from  this  sketch  that  which  refers  especially  to  his 
personal  characteristics,  domestic  relations,  and  the  closing  scenes  of 
his  useful  life: 

"  In  person.  Dr.  Rockwell  was  much  above  the  ordinary  height, 
but  of  erect  and  well-proportioned  figure.  His  head  was  large  and 
of  fine  shape,  features  regular,  and  countenance  pleasing  in  expres- 
sion. On  May  10,  1872,  as  he  was  starting  from  his  door,  he  was 
thrown  from  his  wagon  with  such  force  as  to  cause  a  fracture  of  the 
neck  of  the  thigh  ;  this,  together  with  internal  difficulties  consequent 
upon  the  shock  to  his  nervous  system,  confined  him  to  his  bed  until  his 
death,  Nov.  30,  1873.  Every  day  until  his  death,  during  his  long 
and  painful  illness,  some  of  his  patients  came  to  see  him,  and  it  was 
most  interesting  to  witness  them  leaning  over  the  form  of  the  pros- 
trate physician,  and  in  their  turn  speaking  words  of  encouragement 
and  sympathy.  Encouraged  and  sustained  he  indeed  was  by  their 
presence  and  kind  words,  but  in  a  way  they  knew  not  of,  and  cheered 
by  the  thought  that  he  had  been  of  service  to  them,  to  humanity, 
and  to  his  adopted  State,  he  died,  as  since  early  manhood  he  had 
lived,  in  the  hope  of  a  blessed  immortality  beyond  the  grave. 

"  Of  Dr.  Rockwell's  family,  his  wife,  daughter  and  one  son  survive 
him.  His  second  son,  a  graduate  of  the  U.  S.  Military  Academy  at 
West  Point,  died  in  the  service  in  1868.  Largely  indebted  for  his 
success  to  the  Trustees  of  the  Asylum,  from  whom  he  ever  received 
unswerving  sympathy  and  support,  and  to  the  harmonious  co-opera- 
tion of  those  immediately  associated  with  him,  he  was  also  in  many 
ways  efficiently  aided  by  his  wife,  who,  though  holding  no  official 
position,  devoted  the  greater  part  of  nearly  every  day  of  her  long 
residence  in  the  Institution  to  efforts  to  promote  the  comfort  and 
welfare  of  the  insane." 


IN  MEMORIAM.  291 

Mrs.  Rockwell's  interest  in  the  Asylum  and  affection  for  all  con- 
nected with  it,  continued  through  her  life.  Her  rare  qualities  of 
amiability,  tact  and  culture  were  ever  recognized,  and  among  those 
who  were  members  of  her  own  family  by  virtue  of  their  official  con- 
nection with  the  Asylum  during  the  long  term  of  her  husband's 
superintendency,  are  still  the  common  theme  when  in  their  subse- 
quent meetings  old-time  reminiscences  come  up.  x\like  do  ah  thus 
related  to  the  family  recognize  the  wonderful  individuality,  sagacity 
and  energy  of  the  Doctor,  and  the  rare  combination  of  force  and 
influence  the  two  together  embodied  and  wielded. 

She  died  at  the  residence  of  her  son,  in  New  York,  Aug.  30,  1885. 
Her  funeral  took  place  from  the  Asylum,  whence  she  was  borne  to 
her  last  resting-place  in  the  village  cemetery. 

Dr.  William  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  was  elected  superintendent  Aug. 
19,  1872,  but  tendered  his  resignation  Dec.  11,  the  same  year,  to 
take  effect  whenever  his  successor  should  be  secured,  and  be  ready 
to  assume  charge. 

Dr.  Joseph  Draper  was  elected  Dec.  11,  1872,  and  entered  upon 
service  Feb.  16,  1873. 


ASSISTANT  PHYSICIANS. 

DR.  Chauncey  Booth,  acting  assistant  physician  at  the  opening  of 
the  Asylum  (being  then  a  medical  student),  filled  the  position 
until  1841.  He  was  born  inCoventry,  Conn.,  Sept.  21, 1816,  and 
died  at  Somerville,  Mass.,  Jan.  12,  1858.  At  the  time  of  his  decease  he 
was  in  charge  of  the  McLean  Asylum,  with  which  he  had  been  connect- 
ed some  fifteen  years,  succeeding  Dr.  Bell  in  the  superintendency  in 
1856.  Between  his  service  at  the  Vermont  Asylum  and  that  of  the 
McLean  Asylum,  he  filled  the  position  of  assistant  physician  in  the 
Maine  Insane  Hospital  for  near  three  years,  making  a  continuous 
service  of  about  twenty-one  years  in  the  specialty. 

A  memoir  by  Dr.  Luther  V.  Bell,  his  predecessor  and  friend  at 
the  McLean  Asylum,  was  published  in  the  Arrierican  Journal  of 
Insanity,  Vol.  XIV,  p.  394.  All  who  knew  him  bear  uniform  testi- 
mony to  his  rare  fitness  for  the  position  he  filled. 

Dr.  Samuel  B.  Low,  the  successor  of  Dr.  Booth  as  the  assistant 
of  Dr.  Rockwell,  filled  this  position  for  three  years,  184 1-2-3.  From 
the  Asylum  he  went  to  Suffield,  Conn.,  where — as  the  successor  of 
Dr.  Sumner  Ives — he  was  held  in  high  esteem.     He    was   elected   a 


292  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

Judge  of  Probate  in  1849,  which  office  he  held  for  one  year.  He 
was  also  postmaster  of  the  town  for  one  year.  In  1853,  he  sold  his 
home  in  Suffield  and  went  west,  to  Ohio  or  Illinois,  where  he  died 
about  i860. 

Such  are  the  facts  gathered  from  a  citizen  of  Suffield,  who  adds, 
"  His  success  here  as  a  doctor  was  most  marked,  and  his  standing 
excellent ;  but  he  held  an  itching  ear  for  the  great  West,  and  left 
here  an  excellent  practice." 

Dr.  Henry  M.  Harlow  succeeded  Dr.  Low  at  the  Vermont  Asy- 
lum. He  was  a  native  of  Windham  County,  Vt.,  and  a  graduate  of 
the  Berkshire  Medical  College,  Mass.,  in  the  class  of  '43.  He  served 
as  an  assistant  to  Dr.  Rockwell  in  1844,  and  was  then  appointed  to  a 
similar  position  in  the  Maine  Insane  Hospital,  of  which  he  subse- 
quently became  superintendent.  He  is  now  living  in  retirement  in 
Augusta,  Me. 

Dr.  David  T.  Brown,  of  Massachusetts,  followed  Dr.  Harlow  in 
1845.  He  was  a  graduate  of  the  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons, 
New  York,  and  on  leaving  the  Vermont  Asylum  filled  for  a  time  the 
position  of  assistant  physician  at  the  Utica  Asylum,  subsequently 
being  appointed  Physician  in  Chief  to  the  Bloomingdale  Asylum, 
which  position  he  held  for  many  years.     He  is  likewise  still  living. 

Dr.  Francis  A.  Holman  succeeded  Dr.  Brown  in  1846.  Dr.  H. 
was  from  Massachusetts,  and  was  appointed  to  the  Asylum  service 
from  the  Massachusetts  General  Hospital.  He  was  four  years  con- 
nected with  the  Asylum,  and  much  liked  by  the  inmates,  and  appre- 
ciated by  the  management.  On  leaving  the  Asylum  he  engaged  in 
the  service  of  the  Pacific  Mail  Steamship  Company  between  New 
York  and  San  Francisco,  and  ultimately  settled  in  the  latter  city, 
where  he  had  an  extensive  and  successful  practice,  and  where  he 
died  in  1884. 

Dr.  Oliver  S.  Lovejoy  was  the  successor  of  Dr.  Holman.  He 
was  likewise  a  native  of  Massachusetts,  graduating  in  medicine  at 
the  college  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons,  New  York,  in  1849.  He 
entered  upon  service  at  the  Asylum  at  the  close  of  that  year,  and 
remained  three  years,  when  he  married  and  en.gaged  in  general  prac- 
tice in  Haverhill,  Mass.,  where  he  has  since  resided,  with  the  excep- 
tion of  three  years  (1871  to  1874),  when  he  was  superintendent  of 
the  State  Farm,  Work  House  and  Insane  Asylum,  at  Cranston,  R.  I. 

Dr.  Barton  W.  Chase,  of  Springfield,  Vt.,  succeeded  Dr.  Lovejoy, 
and  filled  the  office  in  1853.     He  was  a  graduate  of  Dartmouth  in 


IN  MEMORIAM.  293 

the  collegiate  course,  class  of  '47,  and  of  the  Vermont  Medical  Col- 
lege at  Woodstock  in  1850.     He  is  now  a  resident  of  Detroit,  Mich. 

Dr.  Henry  M.  Booth  (a  younger  brother  of  Dr.  Chauncey  Booth, 
the  first  assistant  connected  with  the  Asylum),  followed  Dr.  Chase  in 
1854,  and  remained  two  years.  He  was  a  native  of  Connecticut, 
born  in  1826,  and  a  graduate  of  the  Woodstock  Medical  College,  Vt. 
He  died  at  Garden  Plain,  near  Albany,  111.,  where  he  had  lived  for 
twenty-five  years,  and  acquired  a  wide  reputation  as  a  skillful  physi- 
cian and  wise  counsellor.  'The  following  tribute  to  his  personal 
character  is  transcribed  from  a  published  obituary  notice  : 

"  A  born  gentleman,  of  commanding  presence  and  pleasing 
address,  singularly  affable  and  polite  in  his  intercourse  with  others, 
refined  and  cultivated  in  his  manner  and  expression,  he  moved  with 
grace  and  ease  in  any  work  of  life,  readily  adapting  himself  to  any 
circumstances  or  condition  where  professional  duty  called  him.  His 
very  presence  in  the  sick  chamber,  so  kind,  gentle  and  unobtrusive, 
with  his  acknowledged  skill  and  ability  as  a  physician,  gave  him  a 
large  and  lucrative  practice.  Few  physicians  ever  so  fully  retained 
the  affections  and  confidence  of  their  patients  as  Dr.  Booth.  Their 
faith  in  his  skill  and  medical  knowledge  was  unbounded,  and  so  long 
as  he  could  be  reached  no  other  was  sought  or  accepted  save  on  his 
recommendation." 

Dr.  Edward  R.  Chapin  was  officially  connected  with  the  Asylum 
as  an  assistant  physician  during  the  years  of  1855-6-7.  The  son  of 
Mrs.  Dr.  Rockwell  by  her  first  marriage,  he  came  to  the  Asylum  as 
a  member  of  the  family,  at  the  opening  of  the  Institution  in  1836, 
being  then  a  youth  of  fifteen  years  of  age.  He  was  born  in  Salisbury, 
Conn.,  Jan.  i,  1821,  and  died  in  New  York  Dec.  7,  1886.  An  inci- 
dent connected  with  the  opening  of  the  Asylum  was  always  remem- 
bered by  him  and  often  told.  Dr.  Rockwell  had  secured  an  attendant 
of  experience  from  the  Retreat  at  Hartford,  Conn.,  to  be  ready  on 
the  opening  day,  but  it  chanced  that  the  first  patient  admitted  was  a 
female  so  that  service  of  him  as  an  attendant  was  not  at  once 
required.  With  some  reluctance  he  made  himself  useful,  however 
in  the  preparations  being  made  for  male  patients,  and  in  beginning 
housekeeping  on  the  family  scale  some  potatoes  were  engaged  at  a 
neighboring  farm-house,  and  the  attendant  was  asked  to  go  for  these 
— which  he  flatly  refused  to  do,  saying  "he  was  not  hired  for  that 
work."  Young  Chapin  at  once  volunteered  the  service  and  soon 
returned  with  a  bushel  basket  of  them  upon  a  wheelbarrow,  the  first 
ever  used  at  the  Asylum. 


&94  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

Dr.  Chapin  entered  Yale  for  a  collegiate  course  in  1838,  but  was 
obliged  to  abandon  this  after  one  year  on  account  of  some  trouble  of 
his  eyes.  After  his  graduation  in  medicine  at  the  Yale  Medical 
College,  in  1842,  he  was  appointed  assistant  physician  at  the  Maine 
Insane  Hospital,  at  that  time  superintended  by  Dr.  Isaac  Ray,  which 
position  he  held  for  one  year,  1843.  He  was  then  two  years  in 
Bellevue  Hospital,  and  subsequently  for  four  or  five  years  located  in 
practice  in  New  York.  In  1849  or  '50  he  went  to  California  as  sur- 
geon on  a  Panama  steamer,  and  remained  for  two  years  or  more  in 
San  Francisco,  connected  with  a  city  hospital  there,  during  which 
period  he  improvised,  in  connection  with  the  general  hospital,  the 
first  provision  ever  made  in  that  State  for  the  accommodation  of  the 
insane.  Returning,  he  was  for  a  year  or  two  in  service  as  surgeon 
upon  Atlantic  steamships,  and  in  1855  entered  the  specialty  again, 
this  time  permanently.  From  the  Vermont  Asylum  he  was,  in  1858, 
appointed  Resident  Physician  to  the  Kings  Co.  Lunatic  Asylum  at 
Flatbush,  N.  Y.,  which  position  he  held  for  upwards  of  fifteen  years. 

In  the  winter  of  1871,  he  was  seized  with  pneumonia  and  barely 
survived.  Convalescence  was  protracted  and  the  following  winter 
was  spent  by  him  in  Europe.  He  returned  impro/ed  in  health,  but 
resigned  the  following  year,  married,  and  henceforth  retired  from 
professional  life,  usually  spending  the  summer  seasons  in  New  Eng- 
land, but  seeking  in  winter  the  more  genial  climes  of  the  Southern 
States  or  California.  In  the  Autumn  of  1885,  he  went  abroad  with 
his  wife  to  spend  the  winter  in  Torquay.  She  died  in  Paris,  June 
1886,  after  a  brief  illness  of  double  pleurisy,  and  the  Doctor  imme- 
diately returned  to  this  country  with  her  remains  for  burial  in  Brat- 
tleboro,  her  native  place;  but  almost  immediately  after  reaching  New 
York  where  he  had  arranged  to  spend  the  winter  with  the  family  of 
Dr.  Rockwell,  and  to  live,  he  was  attacked  again  with  pneumonia, 
which  terminated  his  life  in  little  more  than  a  week. 

Dr.  John  P.  Clement  succeeded  Dr.  Henry  M.  Booth  and  was 
associated  a§  the  colleague  of  Dr.  Chapin,  upon  the  medical  staff  of 
the  Asylum  in  1856-7.  He  was  born  in  Chester,  N.  H.,  March  2, 
1825.  He  was  educated  in  Dartmouth  College,  class  of  '48,  and 
took  his  medical  degree  from  the  Vermont  Medical  College  at  Wood- 
stock in  1854.  After  leaving  the  Vermont  Asylum  in  the  spring  of 
1858,  he  married  and  settled  in  practice  in  Wisconsin.  He  was 
appointed  to  the  superintendency  of  the  State  Hospital  for  the 
Insane  at  Madison,  in  i860,  resigning  the  charge  in  1864,  by  reason 
of  ill  health.     He  died  June  19,  1873,  having  returned  to  Vermont 


IN  MEMORIAM.  295 

with  the  purpose,  had  his  Hfe  been  prolonged,  of  engaging  again  in 
his  profession  here. 

A  member  of  his  family  writes,  "  Such  is  the  brief  record  of  a 
life  which  was  long  in  suffering  and  struggle,  for  he  was  never  well 
after  leaving  college,  and  only  those  who  knew  him  best  realized 
how  manfully  he  bore  up  under  difficulties  and  discouragements 
which  would  have  crushed  a  less  brave  spirit.  After  leaving  Madi- 
son he  was  never  idle,  although  obliged  to  make  many  changes  on 
account  of  his  health.  He  went  frequently  to  Panama  as  surgeon 
on  a  steamer,  and  more  than  once  went  to  Europe  in  the  same 
capacity.  During  the  war  he  was  surgeon  of  a  Western  regiment  for 
a  few  months." 

Dr.  Franklin  C.  Weeks  was  an  assistant  physician  for  four  years, 
from  the  spring  of  1858  to  1862.  He  was  born  in  Chester,  N.  H., 
November  i,  1835,  and  graduated  at  Dartmouth  Medical  College  in 
the  class  of  '58.  After  leaving  the  Vermont  Asylum  he  filled  for  a 
few  months  the  like  position  at  the  Bloomingdale  Asylum,  when  he 
enlisted  as  assistant  surgeon  in  the  Fourteenth  New  Hampshire  Vol- 
unteers. In  this  service  he  continued  until  his  decease,  which 
resulted  from  diphtheritic  disease  or  malignant  tonsilitis,  at  the 
Hospital  of  the  N.  E.  Relief  Associations  in  New  York,  March  28th, 
1864.  He  was  attacked  with  the  fatal  malady  as  he  was  returning 
from  a  furlough,  to  New  Orleans,  and  his  illness  was  of  but  a  few 
days'  duration. 

Dr.  Weeks  was  remarkable  for  his  affability,  and  by  his  obliging 
disposition  endeared  himself  to  his  patients.  The  writer,  from  an 
official  association  with  him  of  two  and  a  half  years,  can  bear  testi- 
mony to  his  devotion  to  professional  duty,  and  his  fondness  for  the 
work  of  the  specialty. 

Dr.  George  M.  Buffum,  a  native  of  Monroe,  N.  H.,  and  graduate 
of  Dartmouth  Medical  College  in  '58,  was  associated  with  Dr. 
Weeks  as  a  co-assistant  from  the  spring  of  18^8,  till  the  autumn  of 
1859.  He  was  born  January  i8th,  1834,  and  died  March  15th, 
1862,  in  his  native  town,  of  consumption.  He  was  of  good  profes- 
sional ability,  and  had  he  lived,  would  doubtless  have  distinguished 
himself  as  a  successful  practitioner. 

Dr.  Joseph  Draper,  a  native  of  Massachusetts  and  a  graduate  of 
the  Jefferson  Medical  College,  Philadelphia,  succeeded  Dr.  Buffum 
and  filled  the  position  of  an  assistant  physician  for  five  years. 

Dr.  William  H.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  graduate  of  the  College  of  Phy- 
sicians and   Surgeons,   New  York,   in  class  of  '62,  came  upon  the 


296  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

medical  staff  of  the  Asylum  upon  the  retirement  of  Dr.  Weeks,  and 
held  the  position  of  an  assistant  physician  until  his  election  to  the 
superintendency  in  1872. 

Dr.  Nelson  D.  Rumsey  followed  Dr.  Draper  and  was  a  colleague 
of  Dr.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  during  the  year  1865.  Dr.  Rumsey  came  from 
Goshen,  Orange  County,  N.  Y,  He  was  born  in  Monroe,  N.  Y., 
March  13th,  1828,  and  with  the  exception  of  the  year  of  his  connec- 
tion with  the  Vermont  Asylum,  always  lived  in  his  native  countv. 
He  graduated  at  the  Castleton  Medical  College,  Vermont,  in  1853. 
He  engaged  in  general  practice  after  taking  his  degree,  but  a  frail 
constitution  and  consumptive  tendencies  obliged  him  to  seek  a  more 
regular  and  indoor  life,  and  for  several  years  preceding  his  appoint- 
ment at  the  Vermont  Asylum  he  was  engaged  in  the  drug  business. 
After  leaving  the  Institution  he  travelled  for  a  year  or  two  for  his 
health,  then  married,  and  resumed  his  former  business,  until  his 
failing  health  obliged  him  finally  to  relinquish  it.  He  died  in  his 
native  town  February  7th,  1885.  The  testimony  of  those  who  knew 
him  best  is,  that  "for  one  of  such  delicate  physique,  he  was  notable 
for  force,  push,  indomitable  will  and  ambition,  successful  in  business 
and  professional  life,  which  was  only  laid  aside  when  his  bodily 
strength  failed  him." 

Dr.  Edward  B.  Nims,  of  Sullivan,  N.  H.,  a  graduate  in  medicine 
of  the  University  of  Vermont  in  1864,  was  appointed  the  successor 
of  Dr.  Rumsey,  and  entered  upon  service  at  the  beginning  of  1866. 
He  was  the  colleague  of  Dr.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  until  the  end  of  1868, 
when  he  was  appointed  assistant  physician  at  the  Northampton 
Lunatic  Hospital  of  which  he  is  now  superintendent. 

Dr.  Daniel  H.  Lovejoy  of  Rindge,  N.  H.,  a  graduate  of  Bowdoin 
Medical  College,  Me.,  followed  Dr.  Nims,  and  was  associated  with 
Dr.  Rockwell,  Jr.,  in  the  years  1869-70.  He  was  born  October  i6th 
1838,  and  died  at  Concord,  Mass.,  February  17th,  1881.  He  was  a 
man  of  good  professional  acquirements,  winning  address,  and  pos- 
sessed of  some  brilliant  qualities,  which,  had  he  lived,  would  have 
insured  for  him  distinction  in  his  profession. 

Dr.  Charles  H.  Tenney  of  Hartford,  Vt.,  was  selected  to  succeed 
Dr.  D.  H.  Lovejoy  as  second  assistant  physician  in  the  early  part  of 
1871.  He  was  born  February  21,  1830,  and  graduated  from  Dart- 
mouth Medical  College  in  1858,  also  at  the  New  York  Medical  Col- 
lege in  1859.  Besides  a  number  of  years'  experience  as  a  general 
practitioner,  he  had  a  year's  army  experience  in  the  civil  war.     In 


IN  MEMORIAM.  297 

August,  1872,  upon  tlie  election  of  Dr.  Rockwell,  Jr.  to  the  super- 
intendency,  he  was  promoted  to  the  first  assistancy,  which  position 
he  held  to  the  time  of  his  death  at  the  Asylum  April  23d,  1874,  of 
apoplexy. 

A  short  memoir  was  published  in  the  Transactions  of  the  Vermont 
Medical  Society,  1874,  from  which  I  quote  the  following:  "In 
my  inquiries  I  have  failed  to  ascertain  any  specially  notable 
incidents  in  his  life,  but  as  one  has  expressed  it  'the  whole  was  so 
made  up  of  kind  and  worthy  acts  that  no  one  prominent  deed  out- 
shone all  others.'  His  was  the  exemplification  of  a  thoroughly 
useful,  consistent.  Christian  life,  (roverned  in  everything  by  high 
and  uncompromising  principle,  yet  painfully  sensitive  to  the  opinions 
of  others,  no  man  was  more  truly  benevolent  and  humane  in  his 
feelings  and  no  one  more  charitably  disposed  in  his  judgments  of 
others  than  he  Firmness  was  a  prominent  trait,  and  conscientious- 
ness a  ruling  principle  of  action.  He  was  the  last  man  to  be 
approached  or  influenced  by  sinister  proposals  in  any  way,  and  in 
all  his  fraternal  relations  scrupulous  and  mindful  of  his  obligations. 
To  the  Institution  with  which  he  was  connected  as  a  medical  officer 
he  brought  superior  qualifications.  To  his  professional  acquire- 
ments were  added  mature  judgment  and  social  qualities  of  a  high 
order.  In  music  he  delighted,  and  many  an  hour  was  passed  in 
this  indulgence  with  those  under  his  professional  charge,  and  many 
in  this  way  were  undoubtedly  drawn  into  nearer  relations  with  him, 
and  realized  more  fully  that  he  was  in  sympathy  with  them  than 
otherwise  they  might  have  supposed.  He  saw  clearly  the  great 
power  of  moral  agencies  in  the  treatment  of  the  disordered  mind, 
and  exerted  himself  to  aid  in  every  possible  way  in  the  diversions  of 
the  inmates  even  at  the  cost  of  personal  convenience  and  comfort. 
Especially  was  this  manifest  during  the  last  winter  of  his  service, 
when,  notwithstanding  his  growing  indisposition,  he  relinquished  no 
effort,  but  more  than  ever  before  studied  the  wants  of  those  under 
his  care,  and  ministered  to  them  with  ever  increasing  assiduity  and 
conscientiousness." 

Dr.  John  M.  Clarke,  a  native  of  Vermont,  and  a  graduate  in  med- 
icine of  the  University  at  Burlington,  was  chosen  to  the  position  of 
second  assistant  after  the  promotion  of  Dr.  Tenney  to  the  position 
of  first,  in  1872,  and  upon  the  death  of  Dr.  Tenney  he  was  advanced 
to  the  place  of  the  latter,  which  he  held  until  1882.  He  has  since 
continued  in  the  specialty,  receiving  and  treating  insane  persons  in 
his  own  house  at  Burlington. 


298  ANNALS  OF  THE  VERMONT  ASYLUM. 

Dr.  Henry  T.  Whitney,  of  Lunenburgh,  Mass.,  and  likewise  a 
graduate  of  the  University  of  Vermont,  filled  the  position  of  second 
assistant  in  1874-5.  He  has  since  had  charge  of  the  Opium  Asylum 
and  Medical  Missionary  Hospital  in  Foochow,  China,  in  which 
service  he  has  been  engaged  for  the  past  ten  years. 

Dr.  Frank  W.  Spaulding,  of  Bingham,  Me.,  a  graduate  from 
Bowdoin  College  in  1872,  and  at  the  medical  department  of  the 
University  of  New  York  in  1875,  followed  Dr.  Whitney  and  filled 
the  position  in  1876-7.  He  has  since  resided  and  practiced  in 
Epping,  N.  H. 

Dr.  Olney  W.  Phelps,  a  native  of  Waitsfield,  Vt.,  a  graduate  in 
the  Chandler  Scientific  course  at  Dartmouth  College  in  1873,  also  of 
the  Medical  Department  in  class  of  '77,  succeeded  Dr.  Spaulding  at 
the  close  of  the  year  1877,  and  held  the  office  till  the  spring  of  1882, 
when  he  resigned  to  enter  into  general  practice,  and  has  since 
resided  at  Bellows  Falls. 

Dr.  Shailer  E.  Lawton,  a  native  of  Connecticut  and  graduate  in 
medicine  of  the  University  of  Vermont,  was  appointed  to  succeed 
Dr.  Clarke  in  the  spring  of  1882,  and  still  holds  the  position  of  first 
assistant. 

Dr.  Edward  French,  a  native  of  Iowa,  and  graduate  of  Dart- 
mouth Medical  College  in  1881,  was  appointed  to  succeed  Dr. 
Phelps  in  1882,  and  held  the  ofiice  until  the  spring  of  1884,  when  he 
left  to  accept  a  similar  position  in  the  New  Hampshire  Asylum  for 
the  Insane. 

Dr.  Lowell  F.  Wentworth,  of  Bridgewater,  Mass.,  graduate  from 
Dartmouth  Medical  College,  class  of  'S^,  .was  elected  the  successor 
of  Dr.  French  in  1884,  and  held  the  office  till  the  spring  of  1885, 
resigning  to  accept  an  advanced  position  in  the  Kansas  Insane 
Asylum  at  Topeka. 

Dr.  Willis  E.  Bowie,  a  native  of  Maine,  and  graduate  in  medicine 
of  Dartmouth,  class  of  '84,  succeeded  Dr.  Wentworth,  and  is  still  in 
service. 


APOTHECARIES. 

THE  office  of  apothecary,  it  will  be  seen  in  the  foregoing  annals, 
was  but  irregularly  filled  and  was  practically  abolished  after 
1856,  a  second  assistant  physician  having  been  added  to  the 
medical  staff,  also  a  business  clerk. 


IN  MEMORIAM.  299 

Many  of  the  early  assistants  commenced  as  undergraduates 
in  medicine,  and  performed  the  duties  connected  with  this  office. 
Dr.  Henry  M.  Booth  was  the  last  of  these,  and  held  the  position  in 
1845-6-7. 

Jacob  Catlin  was  elected  apothecary  in  1855.  He  was  an 
elderly  man,  in  broken  health,  and  died  at  the  Asylum  after  about  a 
year's  service.     He  was  born  and  buried  in  Connecticut. 

James  Hunt  was  elected  to  succeed  Jacob  Catlin,  in  1856,  and 
was  the  last  incumbent  of  the  office. 


MATRONS. 

MRS.  Ann  F.  Wilkinson,  the  first  matron,  came  from  Connecticut 
in  the  opening  year  of  the  Asylum,  having  had  a  previous 
experience  in  the  care  of  the  insane,  with  Dr.   Rockwell  at 
the  Hartford  Retreat.     The  following  tribute  to  her  faithful  service 
is  taken  from  the  Report  of  the  Superintendent  for  1842: 

"It  was  a  source  of  great  regret  that  we  must  part  with  our 
matron,  Mrs.  Wilkinson.  She  had  devoted  her  energies  to  the  best 
interests  of  the  Institution,  with  a  zeal  and  prudence  that  is  rarely 
equalled.  Being  at  once  kind,  humane,  prudent,  assiduous  and 
untiring  in  her  efforts  to  promote  the  welfare  of  those  committed  to 
her  care,  her  resignation  was  much  to  be  regretted  by  the  friends  of 
the  Asylum." 

Mrs.  Deborah  K.  Baker  succeeded  Mrs.  Wilkinson  in  1842,  and 
filled  the  office  seven  years,  resigning  in  1849.  She  was  born  in 
Peru,  Vt.,  but  was  a  widow  and  living  in  West  Brattleboro  at 
the  time  she  was  elected  to  her  official  position  in  the  Asylum.  On 
her  retirement  she  married  the  farmer  of  the  Asylum,  Mr.  Shearer, 
who  likewise  resigned  his  position  at  the  same  time.  They  went  to 
Michigan,  where  both  are  still  living,  she  at  the  advanced  age  of  84 
years. 

Miss  Abigail  Rockwell,  of  East  Windsor,  Conn.,  was  elected  to 
succeed  Mrs.  Baker,  and  held  the  office  upwards  of  seventeen  years. 
She  was  a  sister  of  Dr.  Rockwell,  and  like  him  possessed  of  rare 
executive  qualities.  She  died  in  service,  after  a  short  illness  of 
pneumonia,  Jan.  11,  1867,  at  the  age  of  68  years.  Her  decease  is 
very  briefly  chronicled  in  the  Report  of  the  Superintendent  of  that 
year,  and  may  be  read  in  the  annals  of  '67.  Her  lengthened  period 
of  labor  deserves  further  mention  and  comment.     "Anything  I  could 


300  ANNALS    OF  THE    VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

say  concerning  her  faithful  service  would  very  likely  be  misconstrued 
or  misinterpreted,"  said  Dr.  Rockwell  at  the  time,  to  the  writer  of 
these  pages,  who  can  now  speak  from  his  personal  official  relation 
with  her  from  1859  to  1865,  and  out  of  the  full  appreciation  of  her 
rare  qualities  of  mind  and  heart,  and  in  the  fullness  of  time. 

It  is  indeed  a  grateful  privilege  to  bear  testimony  to  the  worth  of 
a  friend  whose  virtues  have  faded  not  in  the  lapse  of  a  score  of  years. 
It  requires  no  effort  of  memory  to  bring  her  once  more  into  our  liv- 
ing presence,  and  no  stretch  of  imagination  to  see  her  again  in  the 
steadfast  performance  of  her  unfailing  round  of  duties.  Few  per- 
sons were  ever  better  fitted  by  natural  endowment  for  the  useful 
position  she  came  to  fill.  She  embodied  all  the  elements  of  a  strong 
character.  To  a  sympathizing  heart  and  ready  hand  were  added  the 
Christian  virtues,  and  the  spontaneous  promptings  of  humanity  were 
guided  and  governed  by  her  religious  convictions — strong  and  puri- 
tanic, without  bigotry.  Hers  was  emphatically  a  Christian  life,  in 
which  precept  and  practice  were  ever  consistently  joined.  She  com- 
manded both  respect  and  affection.  In  person  and  presence  she 
exemplified  the  ideal  matron.  In  figure  somewhat  stout,  in  counte- 
nance benevolent,  in  g^ood  sense  and  efficiency  never  wanting. 
Dressed  in  matronly  garb,  lace  cap  and  kerchief  of  spotless  white, 
and  with  the  habitually  worn  spectacles,  no  one  who  ever  knew  her 
can  fail  to  recognize  her.  To  this  day  her  memory  is  cherished  by 
many  of  the  older  inmates  of  the  Asylum,  and  it  is  no  disparagement 
to  those  who  have  succeeded  her  in  ofiice,  if  they  have  failed  fully 
to  fill  in  the  hearts  of  these,  her  place.  No  one's  work  was  ever  more 
unostentatiously  performed.  While  the  day  lasted  she  was  at  her 
post.  When  she  lay  down  for  her  long  rest,  she  had  no  cause  to 
reflect  upon  unperformed  duties  that  might  have  been  done.  Hers 
was  a  lifetime  of  duties  each  day  fully  rounded  out. 

Miss  Frances  M.  Palmer,  of  Putney,  Vt.,  succeeded  Miss  Abbie 
Rockwell  in  1867,  and  filled  with  efiiciency  the  duties  of  the  office 
for  nine  years.  She  was  for  six  years  previously  in  service  as  an 
attendant. 

Miss  Mary  Draper  was  elected  matron  in  1878 — having  been 
advanced  from  the  position  of  superintendent's  clerk — and  held  tlie 
office  for  four  years,  making  altogether  a  more  or  less  continuous 
service  of  nine  years. 

Miss  H.  K.  lUcinche  Gibson,  at  present  in  office,  was  promoted 
from  the  position  of  chief  attendant  January  i,  1884,  having  had  a 
previous  connection  with  the  Asylum  of  near  five  years. 


IN  MEMORIAM.  301 

FARMERS. 

MR.  James  M.  Shearer,  of  Coleraine,  Mass.,  was  the  first 
elected  farmer  under  the  By-Laws  of  1845.  He  held  the 
office  four  years. 

Warren  E.  Eason,  of  Leyden,  Mass.,  was  elected  the  successor  of 
Mr.  Shearer  in  1849,  and  held  the  office  eight  years. 

Alanson  Weatherhead,  of  Guilford,  Vt.,  succeeded  Mr.  Eason  in 
1857,  and  held  the  office  about  five  years,  resigning  on  account  of 
failing  health.  He  was  born  in  Guilford  March  27,  1824,  and  died 
in  Vernon  April  9,  1862. 

Ira  X.  Haywood,  of  Ludlow,  Vt.,  was  appointed  to  succeed  Mr. 
Weatherhead.  He  entered  upon  duty  early  in  1862,  and  gave  near 
twelve  years  of  faithful  labor,  resigning  in  1873.  He  died  at  Lud- 
low Dec.  23,  1884,  where  he  was  born  April  13,  1823. 

Asa  Gilkey,  of  Plainfield,  N.  H.,  was  elected  upon  the  resigna- 
tion of  Mr.  Haywood,  and  held  the  office  for  thirteen  years. 

George  W.  Pierce,  of  Westminster,  Vt. — the  present  farmer — 
entered  upon  duty  in  August,  1886. 

All  the  farmers,  without  exception,  have  been  advanced  from  less 
responsible  situations  in  which  they  had  proved  themselves  faithful 
and  capable. 

STEWARDS. 

THE  office  of  steward,  as   will  be  seen  by  the  Record  of  1879, 
is   of  recent  creation. 

Porter  C.  Spencer,  of  Brattleboro,  was  elected  to  this 
position  in  August,  1879,  having  previously  for  two  years  and 
upwards  been  employed  as  a  business  assistant  or  clerk. 

It  is  impossible  to  pass  in  review  those  who,  in  the  fifty  years 
past,  have  for  longer  or  shorter  periods  filled  non-official  positions 
in  the  Asylum.  They  number  many  hundreds,  and  constitute  an 
ever-changing  throng,  who,  as  they  move  in  their  orbit  within  this 
little  world,  impress  upon  it — at  least  in  a  general  way — a  character 
that  from  time  to  time  is  reflected  upon  the  outer  world  in  light  or 
shadow,  as  the  case  may  be.  The  record  of  the  six  thousand  patients 
treated,  affords  material  for  much  elaboration  which  cannot  be 
entered  upon  here.  It  embraces  all  grades  of  social  status,  and 
all  forms  of  mental  disorder.  As  in  the  world  at  large  there  are 
.individual  celebrities,  so  here  there  are  notables — a  few  of  whom 
have  found  mention  in  the  annals  here  recorded. 


302  ANNALS   OF    THE   VERMONT    ASYLUM. 

With  the  close  of  the  first  fifty  years,  we  lay  down  the  pen,  but 
there  is  no  pause  in  the  work  ; — already  we  have  passed  into  the 
second  half-century,  the  story  of  which  will  be  told  by  another 
chronicler. 


'Like  shadows  gliding  o'er  the  plain, 
Or  clouds  that  roll  successive  on, 
Man's  busy  generations  pass  ; 
And,  while  we  gaze,  their  forms  are  gone, 

'He  lived, — he  died  : '  behold  the  sum, 
The  abstract,  of  the  historian's  page  I 

Alike  in  God's  all-seeing  eye 

The  infant's  day,  the  patriarch's  age. 

'O  Father,  in  whose  mighty  hand 
The  boundless  years  and  ages  lie  1 

Teach  us  thy  boon  of  life  to  prize, 
And  use  the  moments  as  they  fly  ; 

'To  crowd  the  narrow  span  of  life 

With  wise  designs  and  virtuous  deeds  : 

So  shall  we  wake  from  death's  dark  night. 
To  share  the  glory  that  succeeds." 


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